How to Build an AI Classroom Policy for Student Work

A ready-to-use framework for your school to apply.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is entering education at every level. Students are using AI tools to brainstorm, research, edit, and even complete assignments. Teachers and schools now face the challenge of guiding this change. Instead of banning AI or ignoring it, schools need clear AI policies for classrooms.

By creating simple rules for AI use in education, schools can turn a potential risk into a valuable learning opportunity.

Balancing AI Use at School

The most important part of introducing AI into classrooms is balance. Too much restriction blocks creativity. Too little guidance risks plagiarism and loss of learning. A balanced AI classroom policy gives:

Clarity: Students understand when AI is allowed and when it is not.
Integrity: Academic honesty is maintained through disclosure.
Efficiency: Teachers save time with clear expectations.
Skills: Students learn AI literacy — using AI responsibly, checking accuracy, and reflecting on their process.

Download the Guide: Create Your Own AI Matrix

Every school is different. That’s why we created a free e-book on developing your own AI policy.

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helps schools and community groups bring AI education to K-12 students. For just a $2,500 commitment, partners receive a turnkey program with aligned curriculum, on-demand teacher training, and full support—covering coding, ethics, creativity, and real-world AI applications that meet NGSS, Common Core, ISTE, and CSTA standards.

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Take the next step to become a leader in AI in education.

Give your teachers the tools they need, and help your students learn how to use AI responsibly and effectively.

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At NextWaveSTEM®, we offer STEM Artificial Intelligence courses for kids and professional development for teachers.

Grade K-2

Introduction to AI Literacy: Lions, and Tigers, and an Introduction to AI!

Over these lessons, early elementary students will complete hands-on activities introducing them to basic AI, robotics, and machine learning concepts as they solve a variety of zoo-themed challenges at Zapsville Zoo!

Tools/Software/Technical Requirements: Computers/tablets with internet access, access to Scratch Jr.

Grade 3-5

Discovery of AI Literacy: ARTificial Intelligence Artists

When science and art merge, what do we get? Wonder. Students will explore various artistic mediums and the core concepts of artificial intelligence as they unleash their inner-creative through 15 "wonder"-based lessons.

Tools/Software/Technical Requirements: Computers/tablets with internet access, access: to Teachable Machine, Google AI Experiments, Posnet, Reface.

Grade 6-8

Exploration of AI Literacy:
Character AIsland

Welcome to Character AIsland: a digital paradise where you can meet and interact with AI replicas of celebrities, fictional characters, historical figures, and even yourself! Students use block coding to explore text, voice, image recognition, and build smart chatbots.

Tools/Software/Technical Requirements: Computers/tablets with internet access, access to Scratch, access to Machine Learning for Kids.

Grades 9-12

Creation & Evaluation of Advanced Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence Literacy

In this high school STEM course, students learn about the prevalence, applications, and potential of computers and artificial intelligence. They explore image analysis, build datasets to train machine learning models, and apply their knowledge through ML projects. Topics range from facial recognition to autonomous cars, showing how AI is everywhere and Python coding.

Tools/Software/Technical Requirements: PC/Mac computers

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FAQ’S

AI tools are already being used by students for brainstorming, editing, and research. Without clear rules, teachers and students face confusion and inconsistent expectations. An AI classroom policy sets boundaries, promotes academic integrity, and helps students learn to use AI responsibly.
An AI-use matrix is a simple framework that defines levels of AI use in assignments (from no AI allowed to AI fully allowed). Each level comes with teacher guidance and student disclosure rules. Schools can copy and adapt this system to fit their classrooms.
By requiring students to disclose how AI was used, teachers gain transparency. This ensures credit goes to the student while still allowing AI to be used as a learning aid. It reduces plagiarism risks and encourages honesty.
Yes. When used responsibly, AI supports learning by helping students brainstorm, check grammar, and explore new ideas. A policy ensures AI is a tool for creativity and digital literacy — not a shortcut to avoid learning.
Teachers can:
- Add AI-use labels to assignments.
- Share sample disclosure statements.
- Model responsible AI use in class.
- Explain why balance and honesty matter.