Google to let schools disable AI tools, but Search access will also be lost

Google plans to disable its AI tools for K-12 students next year unless school administrators explicitly enable them. The company said the policy follows consultations with schools, teachers, researchers and policymakers. The revised approach covers Gemini, NotebookLM, Gemini in Classroom and Google Search.

Schools that choose to block AI entirely will also lose access to Google Search. Chris Phillips, Google’s vice president for education, told The New York Times that Search and AI are now deeply integrated. Students at schools making that choice will instead see a message saying Search is unavailable. This creates a dilemma for educators who may want to prevent AI Overviews from being used for assignments while retaining access to sources and learning materials.

Google said it will provide more details in the coming months so schools can prepare. The company presented the change as giving school leaders greater control over classroom AI use. The announcement coincided with the launch of Guided Learning, an AI tutor-style tool intended to help students develop understanding rather than simply receive answers. The move comes amid concerns that chatbots can undermine learning by providing direct solutions.