Lawmakers in 21 states filed more than 50 bills in 2025 addressing artificial intelligence in schools, the Center for Democracy and Technology found, prompting unprecedented state attention on classroom AI policies. The measures covered AI literacy, responsible‑use guidance, task forces to assess AI’s educational impact, restrictions on certain AI uses (including student mental‑health applications), and rules to prevent nonconsensual intimate imagery. At the same time, higher‑education and teaching professionals are stressing pedagogical strategies to preserve student agency in an AI era. Education and higher‑education thought leaders argue faculty should redesign assignments around authentic, higher‑order tasks and teach students how to use AI as a tool rather than a shortcut. That includes training on attribution, research practices, and formative assessment approaches that account for generative tools. The parallel tracks — rapid legislative activity and on‑campus curricular responses — create a two‑front challenge for colleges and universities: comply with evolving K–12 and state rules that shape the pipeline, while updating teacher‑preparation and campus policy to safeguard learning outcomes and academic integrity.