COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Education and Labor has released model artificial intelligence policies to help schools use technology in the classroom.
This policy includes the ethical use of AI, prohibiting bullying through AI, and allowing students to use AI only when explicitly authorized by the teacher.
“AI adoption should be human-centered and empower students, educators, and communities,” the model states. “This is a tool that supports learning and teaching and does not replace the efforts of students or the role of educators.”
The two-year state budget passed by the Legislature in June requires school districts and charter schools to adopt formal AI policies by July 1, 2026. State model policies are templates that school districts can use as written or adapt to local requirements.
DEW Director Stephen Dakin said in a statement that students need exposure to AI to succeed in a technology-driven world that is increasingly being shaped by AI.
“While we support schools that use AI to enhance instruction and expand learning opportunities, it is also critical that these tools are used responsibly and in a way that maintains academic integrity,” he said. “This model policy provides school leaders and educators with clear and practical guidance to effectively and safely integrate AI into the classroom.”
The model policy defines artificial intelligence as technology that can make predictions, recommendations, and decisions. We distinguish between general AI and generative AI, which uses large-scale language model algorithms to create new content.
This model policy encourages school districts to build AI literacy among all students and educators by integrating technology into relevant curriculum and professional learning. It proposes that school districts convene an AI workgroup that includes educators, special education professionals, students, local businesses, and higher education institutions.
This policy requires that AI implementations comply with existing data privacy laws, such as the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.
The model policy prohibits the use of AI for bullying, harassment, or any form of intimidation. It says these actions should violate the district’s anti-bullying policy.
Additionally, the guidance notes that school districts should consider policies regarding non-consensual intimate images and state laws against sexual extortion.
The effort builds on an AI toolkit launched in February 2024 by InnovateOhio and the AI Education Project (also known as aiEDU). Sen. Jon Husted, then the lieutenant governor of Ohio, convened a statewide coalition of educators, business, and government leaders to develop the strategy.
Last month, DEW Chief Integration Officer Chris Woolard attended the third White House Artificial Intelligence Education Task Force meeting. This meeting with ministers, educators and parents focused on the impact of AI in the classroom. Woolard highlighted Ohio’s innovative efforts to implement AI policies in all public schools in the state and shared details about the model policy.
According to a new report, 61% of Ohio high schools offer basic computer science courses that include instruction in AI.
This is lower than many of Ohio’s neighbors.
In Indiana, 89% of high schools offer these courses. In West Virginia, it’s 78%. In Pennsylvania, it’s 77%. In Kentucky, it’s 75%. In Michigan, it’s 55%.
The Code.org Advocacy Coalition, which includes industry partners like Adobe and Amazon, nonprofits like Afterschool Alliance, and educational institutions like Carnegie Mellon University, released the report. ”
Only 3% of Ohio high school students enrolled in computer science courses in the 2024-2025 school year. The report also found that Ohio high schools with fewer than 500 students are twice as likely to lack computer science classes than larger schools.
On January 28th, people from across the state will gather in Columbus to show their support for the Computer Science and AI Graduation Requirements Act. Students will also have hands-on projects and conversations with legislators.
House Bill 594 would require students entering ninth grade on July 1, 2029, to complete a computer science course in order to graduate. This course requires instruction in evolving areas of computer science, including AI.
HB 594 is sponsored by Rep. Mike Odioso, a Republican from suburban Cincinnati.
“As we plan for a technology-focused future, it is important to ensure that Ohio State students are aware of the opportunities available to them in computer science and AI and develop the skills they need to succeed,” he said in a statement announcing the Jan. 28 event.
