Supporting Student Learning: NYCPS AI and Screen Time Policy for 2026–27
Dear Families:
As we prepare to welcome students back to school on September 10, I am writing to share details on our 2026–2027 artificial intelligence (AI) and screen time policy for NYC Public Schools (NYCPS).
This year, we are putting robust guardrails in place for student-facing AI and screen time, protecting the critical connection, curiosity, and creativity that help children grow. We believe our schools should be places where relationships with teachers and peers are central to learning. AI will never replace our teachers. It can never replicate the care, expertise, and commitment they bring to our schools.
To that end, for the 2026–27 school year, we are implementing a moratorium on student-facing generative AI (a type of AI that creates content in response to a user’s instructions) in grades 2-K through 8. This means that our early childhood, elementary, and middle school students will not be using AI tools as part of their learning.
We know that our older students are entering a world and workplace increasingly shaped by AI, and we need to responsibly prepare them for that world. So, in grades 9 through 12, student-facing AI will be restricted to limited, carefully controlled high school pilots that involve five vetted and approved AI programs. Students can also use AI under teacher supervision if participating in career readiness programs such as Career and Technical Education. Importantly, all high school students will complete AI literacy coursework to understand how AI works.
When it comes to student use of devices, we are also setting developmentally appropriate limits on 1:1 screen time (individual device use by children). Students in grades 2-K through 2 will have no 1:1 screen time. We recommend no more than 30 minutes of daily screen time for grades 3 through 5 and no more than 45 minutes daily for grades 6 through 8.
Across all grades, this policy does not apply to assistive technology and associated screen time provided through a student's Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan, and technology that supports language access per federal and State mandates for English Language Learners (ELLs). Students with disabilities and ELLs will continue to have access to necessary tools that provide important communication support.
Additionally, teachers may continue using NYCPS-approved AI tools for instructional planning and operational work, but AI may never be used for grading, behavior monitoring, or for placement, promotion, graduation, and other decisions about students. For more details and to read the full AI and screen time policy, please visit schools.nyc.gov/AI. This policy will apply for the 2026–27 school year. A Technology in Schools Coalition made up of students, educators, parent leaders, and other partners will help inform our policy for the 2027–28 school year.
Thank you in advance for your partnership. Implementing this policy successfully will require collaboration across the entire NYCPS community, and our students deserve nothing less.
Sincerely,
Kamar H. Samuels
Chancellor