Louisiana is one of nearly two dozen states with formal AI guidance for schools. The Louisiana Department of Education's tiered model tells students and teachers which AI uses are permitted, such as brainstorming, and which cross into academic misconduct.
What students need to know about AI in school
Students have new ways to get homework help, from general tools like ChatGPT to education-specific platforms such as SchoolAI, EduGPT and SchoolHub.ai. In Louisiana, whether they can use them depends on local guidelines, teacher policies, and the specific assignment.
Students should check their instructor's specific policies, and ensure any AI-generated content is fact-checked and that reasoning is explained. "AI should be used as a learning tool, not a way to bypass an assignment," the state guidance says. Using AI to cheat or plagiarize counts as academic misconduct.
How teachers are using AI in Louisiana classrooms
The Louisiana Department of Education is equipping educators with resources to use AI properly in the classroom, and is developing a new guide on the safe, ethical and effective use of AI. School systems can create their own policies based on guidance and recommendations from the LDOE's Artificial Intelligence Task Force.
For educators seeking structured training, an AI Learning Path for Teachers covers classroom applications like lesson planning. A directory of AI for Education Courses and Certifications lists additional training options for school staff.
Through the task force, the LDOE sets a basic framework for using AI to benefit students and educators. The task force establishes parameters and helps school systems identify and avoid unintended consequences, the department said.
Louisiana as an early adopter of AI rules
Louisiana has been an early adopter of responsible AI use in schools, according to the LDOE. The state's approach includes safeguards for AI in education, technical considerations, relevant laws and policies, and training and support.
Why this matters for education professionals
For teachers and administrators, the tiered model means classroom-level rules still matter. Teachers need to define which AI uses are acceptable for each assignment and communicate those policies before students start working. They should also require students to explain their reasoning and verify facts, since the state guidance treats unchecked AI output as a potential misconduct issue. Administrators can use the Louisiana Department of Education's guidance as a starting point for building school-specific policies that fit their students.
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