Katy ISD Sets Grade-Based Limits for AI Use in Classrooms

Katy Independent School District has established a structured approach for integrating artificial intelligence in its schools, following the release of a comprehensive framework at a board meeting on July 20, 2026.

The framework outlines how AI will be used to support instruction while maintaining the central role of educators. According to district leadership, the policy is designed to ensure that technology enhances teaching without replacing teacher expertise or decision-making.

Under the new guidelines, students in kindergarten through sixth grade will not have access to generative AI tools. Instead, these students will learn about AI concepts through their teachers, and any AI-based instructional programs used will require teacher supervision and must be approved by the district.

For elementary students, generative AI chat tools, including platforms such as Google Gemini, are specifically prohibited. However, teachers may incorporate district-approved instructional programs that use AI in the background to personalize lessons, particularly in reading, as long as these are used under direct supervision.

What the numbers show

• The AI Framework was unveiled on July 20, 2026
• Generative AI use is banned for kindergarten through sixth grade starting in the 2026-27 school year
• Seventh graders may use generative AI only when directed by a teacher, and eighth graders require teacher permission

High school students will be permitted to use district-approved generative AI tools, but only with explicit permission from a teacher. This phased approach allows older students more access to AI resources while maintaining oversight and control at the classroom level.

All students are required to disclose and cite any use of AI in their work. The framework also states that students must verify the information produced by AI and are limited to using only tools that have been vetted and approved by the district.

The policy details that teachers at the elementary level can use certain AI-powered programs to tailor instruction, provided these tools are approved by the district and used under the teacher’s supervision. This approach is intended to support personalized learning without granting direct access to generative AI platforms for younger students.

By setting clear grade-based restrictions and requiring teacher oversight, Katy ISD’s framework aims to balance the potential benefits of AI in education with safeguards to maintain instructional integrity and student accountability.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.