Schools, Tech, and Kids: Who's Watching the Data?

AI-Powered Tools in Education

Schools are rapidly adopting AI-powered tools to assist in teaching. These tools can collect personal information such as voices, images, and handwriting.

Worcester Public Schools Test Literacy App

In early 2025, Worcester Public Schools tested a literacy app that recorded student voices to improve its AI model. Parents were not informed or asked for permission.

Call for Clear Rules

A concerned individual asked the School Committee for clear guidelines. They want parents to be informed and consent before companies collect or use biometric data from children.

"This is not about stopping technology in schools. It's about transparency, responsibility, and ensuring up-to-date protections."

Risks of Biometric Data

Biometric data is unique and cannot be changed like a password. The Federal Trade Commission warns that storing this data can be risky. Once collected, it might be kept indefinitely, repurposed, or sold if the company changes ownership.

Lack of Parental Awareness

Many parents are unaware of what data is being collected or how it is used. This data collection begins in kindergarten and continues until high school graduation.

Schools can give permission for data collection under federal law, but this does not negate the need for clear communication with parents.

"If a school needs a parent's OK to share a photo, why should a company get a free pass to keep a child's voice for AI training?"

Need for Local Oversight

With less federal oversight, local schools must take the lead. Tech companies prioritize investors, while school committees answer to their communities.