Dear County and District Superintendents, Charter School Administrators, and Education Partners:

Release of California Artificial Intelligence in Education Guidance

I am pleased to announce the release of California’s Guidance for the Safe and Effective Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in California Public Schools, developed through the collaborative work of the California AI in Education Working Group convened in response to Senate Bill 1288 (Becker). AI is rapidly transforming the TK–12 learning environment, and this updated guidance is designed to address this.

The guidance supports local educational agencies as they navigate the use of AI in ways that are safe, effective, and aligned with California’s values. It includes statewide recommendations addressing key considerations such as data privacy, academic integrity, educator support, and instructional practices that prioritize equity and human-centered learning. Access the AI in Education Guidance and related resources on the California Department of Education (CDE) AI web page at https://www.cde.ca.gov/ci/pl/aiincalifornia.asp.

To support implementation, the CDE will host a webinar on January 15, 2026, at 4 p.m. featuring overview of the guidance, key themes, and opportunities for participants to consider how the guidance can be applied within their local context. Registration is available via Zoom at https://bit.ly/CAAIGuidanceWebinar.

By working together, California’s education community can ensure AI is used to enhance learning opportunities and support students and educators across the state.

Sincerely,

Tony Thurmond
State Superintendent of Public Instruction