AI Model Policy for Ohio Districts and Schools

Download an editable copy of the model policy

Overview

By July 1, 2026, all Ohio traditional public school districts, community schools, and STEM schools are required to adopt a formal policy on the use of artificial intelligence (AI). To support this statewide initiative, the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, informed by the work of the Ohio AI in Education Coalition, has developed a model policy that schools may choose to adopt.

The Department, in collaboration with its partners, is also providing resources to assist schools with implementing these AI policies effectively. This collective effort underscores Ohio’s commitment to equipping students with the skills and understanding necessary to thrive in a future shaped by AI.

Background

AI TOOLKIT

In February 2024, Innovate Ohio, in partnership with The AI Education Project (aiEDU), announced the launch of an AI Toolkit for Ohio’s K-12 school districts. This toolkit includes numerous resources to support district policy development and has served as a foundation of this model policy.

OHIO’S AI IN EDUCATION COALITION

Building on the success of the toolkit, U.S. Senator Jon Husted, who was serving as the Lt. Governor of Ohio at the time, convened a coalition of educators, businesses, nonprofits, and state government leaders to develop a statewide strategy for AI in education. As a result, Ohio's AI in Education Coalition: AI Strategy, released in November 2024, includes the following recommendations for districts:
  • Form a comprehensive AI workgroup to shape policy and implementation.
  • Establish a policy governing the use of AI in schools.
  • Offer professional development and support for district personnel on how to effectively use AI in the classroom.
Ohio’s AI in Education Coalition recommends that the local policy includes the following:
  • Clearly defined uses of AI by students and staff
  • Standards for maintaining privacy and personally identifiable information
  • Ethical use of AI, including guidelines for the ethical design of and operation of AI
  • Consideration of teacher-specific uses
  • Considerations for evaluation of purchased resources and vendor agreements
  • Outlined process for evaluating AI tools from third party vendors
  • Consideration of the impact on learning objectives and student learning assessment

STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

Building on the coalition’s recommendations, the recent state budget (House Bill 96) requires the Department to develop a model policy and calls for districts, community schools, and STEM schools to adopt local policies. Specifically:
Sec. 3301.24. (A) Not later than December 31, 2025, the department of education and workforce shall develop a model policy on the use of artificial intelligence in schools. The model policy shall address appropriate use of artificial intelligence by students and staff for educational purposes.

(B) Not later than July 1, 2026, each school district, community school established under Chapter 3314. of the Revised Code, and STEM school established under Chapter 3326. of the Revised Code shall adopt a policy on the use of artificial intelligence. The district or school may adopt the department's model policy developed under division (A) of this section.

Last Modified: 1/29/2026 10:22:29 AM