Microsoft limits AI data use in schools with teachers’ union
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Microsoft and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), a teachers’ union in the United States, made an agreement to protect student and teacher data from being used to train artificial intelligence models.
The deal legally requires Microsoft to refrain from using this data for AI training, except in limited cases related to safety and security. Microsoft also agreed not to track students and to ensure human oversight of any AI-driven decisions made within schools.
The agreement establishes transparency requirements, compelling Microsoft to explain how its AI tools function to educators and parents. Randi Weingarten, President of the AFT, stated the deal was necessary because the federal government has not yet created sufficient regulations for AI in education. She described the agreement as having “real teeth,” meaning Microsoft faces legal consequences if it violates the terms. This agreement comes as other cities and school districts consider restricting AI use.
New York City recently paused the use of AI for students in grades eight and below, while Los Angeles implemented a one-year moratorium for all public school students. The AFT is currently negotiating similar agreements with OpenAI and Anthropic, other companies developing AI technology. The new protections will be available to school districts starting November 1.
