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California’s New AI Guidance for Public Schools

Posted on 01/27/2026

Photo by Google DeepMind on Pexels.com
Photo by Google DeepMind on Pexels.com

On December 31, the California Department of Education (CDE) released its comprehensive "Guidance for the Safe and Effective Use of Artificial Intelligence in California Public Schools." While the primary focus is on TK-12, the framework offers strategies also applicable to Adult Education providers. Key areas relevant to our classrooms include:

  • AI as an Enhancer, Not a Substitute: Moving toward human-centered systems that support student well-being rather than replacing the instructor-student connection.
  • AI Literacy for the Workforce: Integrating AI literacy into the curriculum to ensure adult learners are prepared for their careers.
  • Equitable Access: Expanding access for all learners to educational opportunities and STEM careers, ensuring digital equity, and empowering learners to use AI to solve real-world challenges.
  • Academic Integrity & Responsible Use: Utilizing rubrics to help students evaluate AI outputs and understand unacceptable uses in academic settings.
  • Data Privacy & Governance: Clear action steps for Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) regarding student records, security, and procurement.

Each section includes guiding questions to help programs adapt these standards to their specific local needs. 

How to Access: You can read the full guidance and access the implementation rubrics on the CDE website: Access the CDE AI Guidance Here 

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OTAN activities are funded by contract CN240137 from the Adult Education Office, in the Career & College Transition Division, California Department of Education, with funds provided through Federal P.L., 105-220, Section 223. However, OTAN content does not necessarily reflect the position of that department or the U.S. Department of Education.