Google has announced significant changes to how K–12 students access artificial intelligence through school-managed accounts, with new settings expected to take effect in early 2027.

Under the announced policy, Google’s AI tools will be disabled by default for K–12 students unless schools specifically choose to enable them. The change is designed to give school administrators greater control over how artificial intelligence is used in classrooms.

One of the biggest changes involves Google Search. Schools will be able to decide whether students can access the search engine through their school-managed accounts. However, because artificial intelligence is now deeply integrated into Google Search, schools that enable the service will not have the option of removing all AI-powered features.

This means schools that want to provide students with a completely AI-free search experience may need to consider alternative search engines.

Google is also offering Gemini’s Guided Learning feature, designed to help students work through questions and problems step by step rather than simply providing answers. The tool is intended to support learning, critical thinking, and a better understanding of academic concepts.

The announcement comes as educators nationwide continue to debate the growing role of artificial intelligence in schools. While AI offers opportunities for personalized instruction, research assistance, and additional academic support, concerns remain about students becoming overly dependent on the technology, the accuracy of AI-generated information, and its potential impact on independent thinking.

The new settings are expected to begin rolling out in early 2027, giving schools time to review their options and determine how they want students to access Google’s search and AI tools.