Los Angeles, US: The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) has blocked students from accessing generative artificial intelligence tools on district-issued devices, marking one of the latest major restrictions on AI use in US schools. The move comes as education systems across the country debate how to balance the benefits of AI with concerns over cheating, overreliance and its impact on students’ independent learning.

Los Angeles blocks AI access on student devices

LAUSD, the second-largest school district in the United States, has implemented a temporary block on generative AI tools across student laptops and tablets. The restriction applies to students across the district rather than being limited to a particular age group or grade level.

The decision represents a significant shift for a district that had previously moved towards establishing safeguards for responsible student use of generative AI. LAUSD’s earlier policy framework provided for access to approved AI tools for students aged 13 and above, along with digital citizenship and responsible-use guidance.

The latest restriction comes as officials reassess how generative AI should be used in classrooms and what safeguards are necessary to protect authentic student work.

Why is LAUSD restricting generative AI?

The growing use of tools such as AI chatbots has created challenges for schools, particularly around students using AI to complete assignments rather than developing their own writing, research and problem-solving skills.

The Los Angeles decision also comes amid a broader US debate over AI in education. School districts are increasingly weighing whether AI should be integrated into classroom learning under strict safeguards or restricted because of concerns about cheating and excessive dependence on the technology.

Los Angeles is not alone in tightening access. New York City, the largest public school system in the US, has also introduced a one-year restriction on generative AI for elementary and middle school students, while allowing limited AI use for older students through supervised programmes.

AI debate intensifies in US schools

The contrasting approaches show that there is still no uniform policy on generative AI across American schools. Some districts are developing AI-literacy programmes and controlled classroom applications, while others are restricting access until clearer safeguards are established.

LAUSD’s own earlier guidelines had emphasised responsible AI use, ethical considerations and ensuring that students submit authentic work for assessment.

The district currently serves more than 520,000 students across Los Angeles and surrounding communities, making its decision particularly significant for the wider US education debate.

For now, the LAUSD restriction highlights a growing question facing schools nationwide: whether students should be taught to use generative AI responsibly or whether access should first be limited while educators develop stronger rules for its use.