The Florida Department of Education released guidelines for the use of artificial intelligence in K-12 schools and colleges across the state Wednesday.
"Today, the Florida State Board of Education adopted new rules governing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and educational technology in Florida’s school districts, charter school boards, and Florida College System institutions—creating one of the most comprehensive, parent-centered AI frameworks in the country," a press release announcing the decision informed.
At the K-12 level, parents must opt in for their kids to be allowed to use AI and the tools must be used only if they enhance learning, according to the department. AI tools that simulate social or emotional interactions, commonly known as companion chatbots, will be banned across the board, according to the department's guidelines.
"An educated person can use a powerful tool without becoming dependent on it. That is the line Florida is drawing,” Florida Commissioner of Education Henry Mack said through a press release. "AI belongs in a classroom when it sharpens instruction, elevates or enhances the learning experience, protects privacy, and leaves the student’s own mind stronger than it found it. It does not belong in a classroom when it writes the essay, scores the child in secret, offers itself as a companion, or coopts the intellectual virtue of critical thinking. We are preparing Floridians for an AI economy. We are not raising a generation that outsources judgment or rationality."
At the college level, the guidelines change slightly, emphasizing academic integrity. The guidelines say the tools should be used to enhance critical thinking, not replace it and professors should teach students how to use AI, not be ruled by it. The department also said future policies should protect privacy and intellectual property.
Governor Ron DeSantis praised the guidelines in an X post Thursday.
Great framework that respects the rights of parents and ensures that technology in schools is used in an appropriate fashion. https://t.co/GEgklGORFw
— Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantis) September 19, 2026
