U.S. Schools Grapple with AI EdTech Purchases Amidst Billions in Spending
U.S. school districts are spending billions on artificial intelligence (AI) educational technology (edtech) tools, but many are struggling to determine which products are effective and safe. As the new school year begins, AI tools are being deployed to flag struggling students, track attendance, and improve reading scores. The overall U.S. edtech market, including software and digital content, generated nearly $48 billion in 2024 and is projected to exceed $90 billion by 2030. Within this, the AI in education market alone generated approximately $2.5 billion last year and is expected to surpass $15 billion by 2033. Despite this significant investment, school officials feel overwhelmed by the vast array of choices and the rapid pace of AI development, which outstrips the ability of districts and states to keep up. Some states and districts have started offering guidance for vetting AI purchases, but the burden largely remains on individual districts. For instance, Sumner County Schools in Tennessee piloted ... 
