AI in Schools: Rising Use, Risks & Lack of Training for Students & Teachers

The integration of artificial intelligence into K-12 education is accelerating, with a significant majority of teachers and students now utilizing these tools in and out of the classroom. While the potential benefits – such as streamlined lesson planning and personalized learning support – are attracting educators, a growing body of evidence suggests that this rapid adoption is outpacing the development of necessary safeguards and training, raising concerns about potential harms to students.

Widespread Adoption, Varied Uses

Recent data indicates that approximately 85% of K-12 public school teachers reported using AI during the 2024-2025 school year, primarily for tasks related to curriculum development and content creation. This trend mirrors a similar surge in student usage, with 86% of K-12 students having experimented with AI tools. Among those students, roughly half are leveraging AI for academic support, including exploring topics beyond classroom instruction, receiving tutoring, getting help with homework, and even seeking guidance on college applications. The increase in student use is particularly notable; in 2023, only 13% of teens reported using ChatGPT for schoolwork, a figure that nearly doubled to 26% in 2025, according to a Pew Research Center study.

The Time-Saving Appeal for Educators

The appeal for teachers is largely centered around time savings. A recent study by Gallup and the Walton Family Foundation found that six in ten teachers reported using an AI tool for their work during the 2024-25 school year. Teachers are most frequently using AI for preparing to teach (37% monthly use), creating worksheets or activities (33%), and modifying materials to meet student needs (28%). Those who regularly incorporate AI into their workflow – at least weekly – estimate saving an average of 5.9 hours per week, which equates to roughly six weeks over the course of a typical 37.4-week school year. This “AI dividend,” as the study terms it, highlights the potential for these tools to alleviate some of the workload pressures faced by educators.

A Growing Disconnect: Student Well-being and Critical Thinking

However, the rapid embrace of AI in schools isn’t without its downsides. A report released by the Center for Democracy and Technology (CDT) reveals a concerning trend: a potential erosion of student well-being and critical thinking skills. The report, based on surveys of teachers, parents, and students, found that half of students feel less connected to their teachers when AI is used in the classroom. Nearly half of both teachers (47%) and parents (50%) expressed concern about a decrease in peer-to-peer connections as a result of AI integration.

Perhaps more alarming is the finding that 70% of teachers worry that AI weakens students’ critical thinking and research abilities. This concern is underscored by recent incidents involving students who experienced mental health crises, including self-harm and suicide, after interacting with AI chatbots for emotional support. A NPR report detailed these cases, highlighting the potential for AI to provide harmful advice, as demonstrated by a 2025 study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (DOI: 10.2196/78414). In simulated mental health scenarios, chatbots sometimes suggested detrimental actions, such as complete social isolation or dropping out of school.

Policy and Training Lag Behind Implementation

The CDT report and other analyses point to a significant gap between AI adoption and the implementation of appropriate policies and training. As of 2025, only 35% of school district leaders reported providing students with any form of AI training, and just 45% of principals indicated that their schools or districts had established clear policies or guidance regarding AI use. This lack of preparation leaves students vulnerable to the potential risks associated with these tools, including misinformation, privacy violations, and the development of unhealthy dependencies.

The RAND Corporation’s Assessment of District Preparedness

A report from the RAND Corporation further emphasizes this point. Their research, conducted in 2025, found that while many districts are experimenting with AI, few have a comprehensive strategy for its integration. The report highlights the need for districts to develop clear guidelines for responsible AI use, provide professional development for teachers, and invest in resources to support students in navigating this evolving technological landscape. The report also notes that many districts are still grappling with fundamental questions about data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the ethical implications of AI in education.

OpenAI’s Response: ChatGPT for Teachers

Recognizing the need to address teacher concerns and promote responsible AI integration, OpenAI launched “ChatGPT for Teachers” in November 2025, offering free access to educators until June 2027. As reported by Axios, this move is seen as an attempt by OpenAI to regain trust with educators following initial concerns about cheating and academic integrity sparked by the widespread availability of ChatGPT three years prior. The tool is designed to assist teachers with tasks such as lesson planning, assessment creation, and personalized learning support, while also providing resources and training on responsible AI use.

Looking Ahead: A Need for Deliberate Integration

The increasing prevalence of AI in K-12 education presents both opportunities and challenges. While the potential for time savings and personalized learning is undeniable, it’s crucial that schools and districts prioritize student well-being, critical thinking skills, and responsible AI use. This requires a multi-faceted approach that includes comprehensive training for teachers and students, the development of clear policies and guidelines, and ongoing research to assess the long-term impacts of AI on education. The focus should shift from simply adopting AI tools to deliberately integrating them in a way that enhances learning and supports the holistic development of students. Further research is needed to understand the long-term effects of AI-assisted learning on cognitive development and social-emotional skills, and to develop effective strategies for mitigating potential risks.