[ 2025-12-30 22:38:11 ] | AUTHOR: Tanmay@Fourslash | CATEGORY: POLICY
TITLE: Ohio Releases Model Policy for AI in Education
// The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce has issued a model policy to guide the integration of artificial intelligence in classrooms, requiring schools to adopt formal policies by July 1, 2026.
- • Ohio Department of Education and Workforce released a model AI policy for schools to promote responsible use of the technology.
- • School districts must adopt formal AI policies by July 1, 2026, and can adapt the model to their needs.
- • The policy addresses curriculum integration, appropriate uses and ethical considerations, developed with input from educators and stakeholders.
Ohio Department of Education Releases Model AI Policy
The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce announced the release of a model policy on Tuesday aimed at guiding the integration of artificial intelligence in educational settings across the state.
The policy, unveiled on Dec. 30, 2025, provides a framework for schools to responsibly incorporate AI tools into teaching and learning. Under Ohio law, all school districts and educational institutions must adopt their own formal AI policies by July 1, 2026. The model serves as a ready-to-use option or a customizable template to meet specific district requirements.
"Ohio’s AI in Education Model Policy demonstrates our commitment to preparing students to succeed in a technology-driven world that is increasingly being shaped by AI," said Stephen Dackin, director of the department, in a statement. He emphasized the dual goals of leveraging AI to enhance instruction while upholding academic integrity and ethical standards.
The initiative responds to the rapid advancement of AI technologies and their growing presence in classrooms. Officials noted that the policy was developed in collaboration with the Ohio AI in Education Coalition, incorporating feedback from educators, business leaders, nonprofits and government representatives.
Key Provisions of the Model Policy
The model policy outlines practical guidance for educators on several fronts. It includes recommendations for embedding AI into curricula to expand learning opportunities, such as using AI for personalized instruction or data analysis in lesson planning.
Appropriate uses are delineated to ensure AI supports rather than supplants human teaching. For instance, the policy encourages AI applications that foster critical thinking and creativity while prohibiting uses that could undermine student assessments or promote plagiarism.
Ethical considerations form a core component, addressing issues like data privacy, bias in AI algorithms and equitable access to technology. The guidance stresses transparency in AI deployment, requiring schools to inform students and parents about tool usage and to train staff on responsible practices.
"This model policy provides school leaders and educators with clear, practical guidance to effectively and safely integrate AI into the classroom," Dackin added. The department aims to equip Ohio's education system to navigate AI's transformative potential without compromising safety or fairness.
Development and Broader Context
The policy's creation involved extensive stakeholder input, ensuring it reflects diverse perspectives on AI's role in education. Coalition members highlighted the need for proactive measures as AI tools like chatbots and automated grading systems become commonplace.
Ohio's move aligns with national trends, where states are increasingly regulating AI in schools amid concerns over cheating, misinformation and digital divides. The model policy is available for download on the department's website, allowing immediate implementation by interested districts.
As AI continues to evolve, the department plans to update the policy based on emerging technologies and feedback. This release underscores Ohio's focus on innovation in education, positioning students for future workforce demands in an AI-influenced economy.
Educators and administrators are encouraged to review the policy ahead of the 2026 deadline to align with state requirements and best practices.
Tanmay is the founder of Fourslash, an AI-first research studio pioneering intelligent solutions for complex problems. A former tech journalist turned content marketing expert, he specializes in crypto, AI, blockchain, and emerging technologies.