State Guidance on AI in K–12 Schools

“State AI guidance” can mean a department resource page, model policy, instructional example, procurement advice, professional learning or binding regulation. These categories carry different authority. A resource page may collect materials without requiring a district to follow them. A model policy offers language to adapt. A state law or regulation may impose specific duties. Readers should distinguish these forms rather than treating every linked PDF as a statewide mandate. State approaches evolve at different speeds. Arizona’s Department of Education hosts generative AI resources and links to guidance created by other organizations. Ohio’s Department of Education and Workforce provides an instructional companion with an example student AI usage model distinguishing no assistance, brainstorming and planning, and AI-supported editing. These illustrate how guidance can clarify classroom expectations. External resources linked from a state page should be attributed to their authors, and an example framework is not a substitute for local policy or legal advice. A teacher deciding whether students may use AI on an assignment should consult several layers: state requirements, district policy, school procedures, course expectations and relevant contract or privacy rules. One guide may focus on classroom use but say little about retention; another may address procurement without defining acceptable student work. The document’s date matters because recommendations and links change. Look for issuer, audience, scope, revision date and references to controlling rules. Local guidance works best when it gives practical examples. A policy can state what students may do for brainstorming, editing, research, translation or assessment; how they disclose assistance; what information they must not upload; and how teachers will review work. It should address accessibility, bias, accuracy and alternatives where appropriate. Educators should not infer permission from a vendor’s availability or a state resource link. Confirm the current rule with the responsible school or district official.