Regulate AI companies, not AI in schools, North Dakota state superintendent says - northdakotamonitor.com

North Dakota's state superintendent of public instruction has taken a firm stance on AI regulation, advocating for oversight of AI companies rather than restrictions on AI use in schools. In a recent statement, the superintendent emphasized that while AI tools are increasingly integrated into classrooms, the primary responsibility for ensuring ethical and safe AI deployment lies with the companies developing these technologies. The position contrasts with growing calls for stricter school-level controls on AI tools, suggesting that regulatory efforts should prioritize corporate accountability over classroom restrictions.

The superintendent's remarks come amid a broader national debate about the role of AI in education, where concerns about data privacy, algorithmic bias, and student safety have prompted some states to consider tighter controls. By focusing on the companies behind AI tools, the North Dakota official argues that regulators can address systemic risks without stifling innovation or limiting educational opportunities for students.

This stance also reflects a growing recognition that AI systems in education are often provided by third-party vendors, whose practices may not always align with the needs or values of local school districts. The superintendent's position highlights the need for clear, consistent guidelines that hold AI developers accountable while allowing educators flexibility in adopting beneficial tools.