Ohio’s New AI Policy Law: What Your District Needs to Do Before December 31

A Quick Overview of the Law

In 2025, Ohio became the first state in the nation to require every K‑12 public school district to adopt a formal policy on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. By December 31, 2025, the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (ODEW) will release a state model policy. All districts must either adopt this model or implement their own aligned version no later than July 1, 2026. This requirement reflects Ohio's recognition that AI is already transforming classrooms, assessment, administration, and student support.

Considerations for Policy Development Timeline

Districts should be aware of the following timeline considerations:

Alignment with State Model

After the state's model policy is released on December 31, districts will have the option to adopt it directly or develop their own policy. Developing a policy that reflects specific local needs may require additional time.

Time for Consensus Building

Building consensus on a new policy with boards, administrators, educators, and families can be a months-long process. Advanced planning can allow for a more thorough implementation process.

Planning for the 2025–26 School Year

Early policy development allows districts to align their efforts with professional development, curriculum planning, and technology procurement for the upcoming school year.

Why Generic Policies May Miss Critical Student Protections

Generic or copy-paste policies risk overlooking important protections. Districts must consider:

Data Privacy

Students' personal and educational data may be exposed if policies don't establish guardrails around vendor use, storage, and sharing.

Special Education and Disability Rights

AI systems must be aligned with IDEA, Section 504, and ADA requirements. Generic language often ignores accommodations, and individualized supports.

Transparency and Accountability

Families and staff deserve clarity about how AI is being used and what recourse exists when problems arise.

Next Steps

The deadline for districts to adopt an AI policy is July 1, 2026. Proactive planning allows a district to:

• Shape a policy that reflects its community's values

• Build in safeguards for privacy, fairness, and special education

• Provide training for staff in alignment with the new policy

Districts that act early will be better positioned to implement AI safely and responsibly across their systems.