Microsoft Commits to AI Privacy Principles for Schools Following Bans
Microsoft has entered into a privacy and safety agreement with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and its New York City affiliate, the United Federation of Teachers (UFT), establishing ten principles for AI use in schools.
The agreement comes shortly after two major school systems announced bans on student-facing AI tools. Under the terms, Microsoft has committed to not training AI models on data from students or educators, limiting the amount of data collected in the first place, and disclosing to families in plain language how its educational tools operate.
The principles are designed to be contractually enforceable by school districts that adopt them, giving educators legal leverage if Microsoft fails to meet the commitments. This move reflects growing scrutiny from teachers' unions and parents over how AI companies handle sensitive data involving children.
The agreement signals an attempt by Microsoft to proactively address concerns that have led other districts to restrict AI tools outright, rather than waiting for regulatory mandates or contract disputes.