Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s already transforming classrooms across America. During a recent hearing titled "From Chalkboards to Chatbots: The Impact of AI on K-12 Education," lawmakers and education experts discussed how AI is changing the way students learn, while also raising key concerns about its responsible use, as stated by the Committee on Education & Workforce.
AI in the Classroom: A Tool, Not a Replacement
Subcommittee Chairman Kevin Kiley (R-CA) opened the hearing by emphasizing that AI is already being used by students, whether schools are prepared or not. He argued that the real question isn’t whether students will use AI—since that’s already happening—but rather how schools can guide them to use it responsibly to enhance learning.
While AI offers exciting possibilities, some lawmakers, like Rep. Burgess Owens (R-UT), questioned whether AI-driven tools might weaken students’ critical thinking skills. Dr. Sid Dobrin, Chair of the Department of English at the University of Florida, countered that AI should be seen as an augmentative tool rather than a replacement for learning. He explained that AI is not a single, monolithic technology but rather a broad category of tools that must be applied thoughtfully in different educational contexts.
While AI offers exciting possibilities, some lawmakers, like Rep. Burgess Owens (R-UT), questioned whether AI-driven tools might weaken students’ critical thinking skills. Dr. Sid Dobrin, Chair of the Department of English at the University of Florida, countered that AI should be seen as an augmentative tool rather than a replacement for learning. He explained that AI is not a single, monolithic technology but rather a broad category of tools that must be applied thoughtfully in different educational contexts.
AI’s Potential to Personalize Learning
One of the most promising aspects of AI is its ability to provide personalized education, particularly for students with disabilities. Rep. Mike Rulli (R-OH) asked Chris Chism, Superintendent of the Pearl Public School District, how AI could help tailor learning experiences. Chism highlighted how AI can create individualized plans that extend beyond K-12, offering students customized short-term, medium-term, and long-term learning strategies. He predicted that AI’s influence would stretch into higher education and even the workforce, making knowledge more accessible than ever before.
While AI presents exciting opportunities, Republican lawmakers warned against excessive federal regulation. Rep. Mark Harris (R-NC) argued that heavy-handed government intervention could stifle innovation. Dr. Julia Rafal-Baer, CEO of the ILO Group, agreed, stating that AI is evolving too quickly for rigid federal mandates. She stressed that states and local districts should have the flexibility to adapt AI policies based on their unique needs, rather than waiting for slow-moving federal guidelines that could become outdated within months.
Democrats, however, pushed for a federal framework to regulate AI in education. Erin Mote, CEO of InnovateEDU, argued in favor of centralized oversight, though critics pointed out that such an approach could hinder rapid adaptation in a fast-changing technological landscape.
While AI presents exciting opportunities, Republican lawmakers warned against excessive federal regulation. Rep. Mark Harris (R-NC) argued that heavy-handed government intervention could stifle innovation. Dr. Julia Rafal-Baer, CEO of the ILO Group, agreed, stating that AI is evolving too quickly for rigid federal mandates. She stressed that states and local districts should have the flexibility to adapt AI policies based on their unique needs, rather than waiting for slow-moving federal guidelines that could become outdated within months.
Democrats, however, pushed for a federal framework to regulate AI in education. Erin Mote, CEO of InnovateEDU, argued in favor of centralized oversight, though critics pointed out that such an approach could hinder rapid adaptation in a fast-changing technological landscape.
The Bottom Line: Local Control Over Bureaucracy
The hearing made it clear that AI is revolutionizing education, but the best decisions will come from local educators and families—not Washington bureaucrats. As Republicans advocate for reducing federal overreach and empowering states, the focus remains on ensuring AI enhances learning without compromising student development. The debate continues over how much oversight is necessary, but one thing is certain: AI is here to stay, and schools must find the right balance between innovation and responsibility.