Most States Lack Clear AI Cheating Policies Despite Widespread Teen Use

More than 70% of teens use AI for schoolwork, yet most states lack clear cheating policies.

“We really need real consequences,” she said. “We need workshops for teachers to detect cheating. We need workshops for kids.”

State education agencies in at least 37 states and the District of Columbia have issued guidance on AI use in schools, but these largely avoid concrete measures to detect or prevent AI-enabled cheating. This leaves teachers nationwide to grapple with academic integrity challenges without substantial administrative support.

At least 13 states have passed laws addressing AI in education, often delegating policy development to local districts. While many large districts are crafting their own AI policies, some discourage reliance on AI detection tools, citing concerns about their effectiveness. Some educators have reported reverting to traditional in-class, pencil-and-paper assignments to address AI-enabled cheating. New York City recently delayed and then announced a new AI policy following backlash, and Manassas City Public Schools rejected a proposed AI misuse policy in late July. Experts such as Justin Reich have noted the absence of evidence-based policies and professional development to help teachers manage these issues.

Resources such as New York’s grant-funded libraryready.ai are being developed to assist educators, indicating some efforts to address the problem.

While Montana is not mentioned in current AI education policy discussions, rural schools in the state could potentially face challenges in accessing AI-detection tools or professional training. Montana educators might similarly face the challenge of balancing innovation with integrity amid limited state-level guidance.

States urge schools to use AI, but leave teachers on their own to stop cheating
By Lily Altavena, Chalkbeat