Google tightens Search and AI access for US school students

Google is changing its services for US primary and secondary schools. Schools that want students to use Google Search must have an admin turn it on first, and the AI features built into Search will be opened at the same time. Accounts from kindergarten through 12th grade will have Google Search, the Gemini chatbot, and Gemini in Google Classroom off by default.

Parents and school districts in the US have grown more wary of AI in classrooms. In August, Google was criticized for turning on the chatbot in Google Classroom by default. In September, New York City banned generative AI for students in eighth grade and below, and the Los Angeles school district blocked it on school-issued devices.

Under the new rule, districts must choose one: allow Google Search with AI features, or shut off Search entirely. Google also plans to bring its guided learning mode from the Gemini app into Search. When students work on a physics problem or a book report, the system won't give direct answers. Instead, it offers hints to help them understand and solve problems step by step.