Google’s planned changes to student access to Search and artificial intelligence tools could affect Lakota Local Schools, where students already face AI restrictions.
Google announced Tuesday, Nov. 3, that access to Search, Gemini, Gemini Notebook and Gemini in Classroom will be off for K-12 student accounts until administrators enable them.
The company said it would give schools more details in the coming months before the controls roll out. Its announcement does not establish when Lakota accounts would change or what the district will enable.
Education Week reported that Lakota blocks student AI tools. Cybersecurity teacher Jennifer Circello told the publication that the restriction complicates teaching students how to use AI in that field.
What Google is changing
Google also announced Guided Learning features intended to help students work through problems rather than receive immediate answers. It said a pilot in Search would begin at selected U.S. schools later this month.
In Classroom, Google said teachers can assign Guided Learning activities tied to class material. It said those activities became available globally on the announcement date.
The company described the new controls as a response to feedback from schools, teachers, researchers and policymakers. It said administrators would receive advance information to prepare for the transition.
Lakota’s digital tools
According to Lakota’s 2026-27 fee announcement, its $35 digital learning fee applies to all K-12 students. It funds learning platforms, applications and digital tools, and includes a warranty for student-issued Chromebooks.
