Los angeles bans AI use on district devices to cut screen time

Los Angeles Unified School District has announced a new policy banning students from using generative AI tools on district-owned devices as part of a broader effort to reduce screen time in classrooms. The measure follows a year-long review of digital device usage, which led to restrictions on screen time for younger students and the removal of digital devices for lower grades. The policy applies only to district-owned equipment, allowing students to still use services like ChatGPT outside of school. Dominic Caggiola, the district’s chief technology officer, stated that AI and AI-powered content are now subject to stricter content and platform restrictions. The decision comes after a controversial AI initiative in 2024, which faced backlash when the contracted development company collapsed and its founder was charged with fraud. The district’s former superintendent resigned amid scrutiny over ties to the company, though he denied any wrongdoing. Nick Mellor, another board member, raised concerns about potential inequities, noting that some students might use AI at home to complete assignments while others lack access to such tools. New York City has also implemented a similar one-year ban on AI use for students in grades K through 8, marking a growing trend among U.S. school districts to regulate AI in education.