House Subcommittee Examines AI's Role in Education

Lawmakers discuss benefits and risks of using AI technology in the classroom

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A subcommittee of the U.S. House Committee on Education and Workforce held a hearing to discuss the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. Congressman Tim Walberg, the committee chair, said AI could benefit teachers and students, but teachers need proper training to use it effectively. Subcommittee Chair Kevin Kiley noted that while AI can save teachers time, its use by students must be ethical and productive. Representative Suzanne Bonamici warned that without leadership from the Department of Education, less affluent schools may miss out on new technologies, potentially widening achievement gaps.

Why it matters

As AI technology continues to advance, there are growing concerns about its appropriate use in the classroom. This hearing aimed to examine the potential benefits of AI in education, as well as the risks and challenges that must be addressed to ensure equitable access and responsible implementation.

The details

The subcommittee heard from experts in the education and technology fields about how teachers can be equipped to use AI tools effectively, what support they need from school leadership, and how to guide students in responsibly utilizing AI resources. Lawmakers emphasized the need to analyze AI's potential in education 'soberly, with a clear view of the potential risks'.

  • The subcommittee hearing took place on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.

The players

Tim Walberg

Chair of the U.S. House Committee on Education and Workforce.

Kevin Kiley

Republican Chair of the Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education Subcommittee.

Suzanne Bonamici

Democratic member of the Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education Subcommittee.

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What they’re saying

“We're taking AI seriously. Whether we understand it or not, we need to know about it and know best practices.”

— Tim Walberg, Chair, U.S. House Committee on Education and Workforce

“Students aren't just using these tools to get homework done faster, by the way. Excessive or irresponsible use of AI as a crutch threatens to replace critical thinking, especially when used outside of teacher supervision.”

— Kevin Kiley, Chair, Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education Subcommittee

“Without the department's leadership, or without the department, many schools, particularly in less affluent areas, will go without new technologies. This will likely further widen achievement gaps and leave more children behind.”

— Suzanne Bonamici, Member, Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education Subcommittee

What’s next

The subcommittee plans to continue its examination of AI in education, with a focus on developing guidelines and best practices to ensure the responsible and equitable use of the technology in classrooms.

The takeaway

This hearing highlights the complex issues surrounding the integration of AI in education, as lawmakers seek to balance the potential benefits with the need to protect students and maintain the integrity of the learning process. Ongoing dialogue and collaboration between policymakers, educators, and technology experts will be crucial in navigating this evolving landscape.