Chicago Public Schools (CPS) says it is prepared to find an alternative to Google Search rather than accept AI features that the district cannot disable. The response follows Google’s announcement that schools restricting artificial intelligence will lose access to its search engine on student accounts starting next year.
According to Chalkbeat, CPS is exploring ways to suppress Google’s AI-generated answers while maintaining traditional search access. The district currently blocks generative AI tools, including Gemini, ChatGPT, and Claude, over student privacy and safety concerns.
Google Makes AI Part of School Search
On November 3, Google announced new controls that will disable Gemini, Gemini Notebook, Gemini in Classroom, and Google Search by default for K-12 student accounts until administrators enable them.
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However, schools cannot enable traditional Search without its integrated AI features, including AI Overviews and AI Mode. Google says the technologies are too closely connected to offer separately.
The company is also introducing Guided Learning, which provides step-by-step explanations instead of immediate answers to homework questions. These changes build on Google’s broader integration of AI Mode into Search.
Chicago Schools Push Back Against Google’s Decision
CPS has questioned why students must accept AI-generated responses to access basic search functionality. In a statement reported by the Chicago Sun-Times, the district explained its position:
“The District would like to continue to provide students with access to the Google search engine without the AI component. If such an arrangement can’t be reached, the District will look to other search solutions.”
Meanwhile, around 30 parents, students, and educators protested outside Google’s Chicago office on November 11, raising concerns about AI’s influence on classroom learning.
CPS already relies heavily on Chromebooks, Google Classroom, and other Google services, making any transition complicated.
The dispute also highlights growing concerns about AI Overviews in Google Search, particularly when students need to evaluate original sources and develop independent research skills.
For now, CPS has not announced a replacement search engine or finalized its response, although it has made clear that student safety and control over classroom technology remain priorities.
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