Florida Board of Education approves new AI rules for schools, colleges

The Florida Board of Education has approved new rules governing the use of artificial intelligence in K-12 schools and public colleges, requiring updated policies to address academic integrity, student privacy, and responsible AI use. School districts will need to revise their policies to address AI, while public colleges must adopt guidelines covering academic honesty, student privacy, and how AI can be used in coursework. The rules also mandate additional review before AI can be used in pre-K through fifth grade and prohibit the use of AI to meet a student's social or emotional needs. "The proposed rules give schools and colleges a clear framework. They empower parents. They empower faculty. They empower students. They protect academic integrity, student information, privacy and the primacy of learning," said Henry Mack, Florida commissioner of education. School districts are required to have their new AI policies in place by July 1 of next year for the 2027-2028 school year. Public colleges will also need to post their AI policies for students, faculty, and staff. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV