Explore the following resources on navigating AI in schools and communities, including its role in social companions and human connections, its use and impact in education and digital learning platforms, and the development of policies, advocacy efforts, and public perspectives surrounding its ethical and responsible use.

What is AI? Large Language Models and Social Companions

• AI: What AI Can and Cannot Do. FactSheet #9. Fairplay.
• Marcus, G. (2025, August 12). LLMs are not like you and me—and never will be. Marcus on AI. 
• Lee, A. & Culver, M. (2025, July 31). 5 Principles for Pro-Social AI, The Rithm Project.
• Social AI Companions, Common Sense Media.
• “Darling Please Come Back Soon” Sexual Exploitation, Manipulation, and Violence on Character AI’s K…,” ParentsTogether.
• Social & Human Connections: Benefits, Risks, & Social Impact, Noesis Collaborative & USC Neeley Center.
• Malfacini, K. (2025, Apr 16). The Impacts of Companion AI on Human Relationships: Risks, Benefits, and Design Considerations, AI & Society.

Using AI and Digital Learning Platforms in Schools

• Boninger, F. & Nichols, T. Philip (2025, September 25) Fit for Purpose? How Today’s Commercial Digital Platforms Subvert Key Goals of Public Education, National Education Policy Center.
• Laird, E., Dwyer, M., Quay-de La Valle, H. (2025, Oct 8). Hand-in-Hand: Schools Embrace of AI Connected to Increased Risks to Students. Center for Democracy & Technology.
• On bias in IEPs: Tech Impact Lab (2025). Schools using AI large language models to meet special needs of students: What could possibly go wrong? Georgetown University. 
• On AI and Surveillance: (2025, October 24). US student handcuffed after AI system apparently mistook bag of chips for gun. The Guardian.

State/District Practice

• Prothero, A. & Vilcarino J. (2025, October 10). How School Districts are Crafting AI Policy on the Fly. EdWeek.

National Parents Union Resources

• A Parent’s Guide to AI Advocacy in Education in collaboration with Common Sense Media and EDSAFE AI (In English and Spanish)
• Polling Data on AI – October 2023 and December 2024
• Town Hall: Let’s Get Real About Digital Safety