Hanover Research (Hanover), a leading provider of data and insights to K-12 education leaders, has released findings from its National AI Usage in K-12 Survey. The survey, conducted in August 2026, is a survey of nearly 300 parents and educators across the United States. The research examines how students and staff are using AI, where concerns remain, and what support educators need to navigate AI's role in teaching and learning.
“As AI use becomes more prevalent in K-12 education, leaders cannot afford to make decisions based on assumptions alone,” says Marriam Ewaida, senior managing director at Hanover Research. “This research provides insight into how parents and educators currently experience AI, giving schools and districts a strong starting point for developing responsive policies.”
Findings from the survey, designed in collaboration with the Michigan Association of Superintendents & Administrators (MASA), point to widespread AI use across K-12 organizations alongside uncertainty about responsible implementation. While parents and educators recognize potential applications for AI in teaching and learning, respondents also surface concerns related to privacy, accuracy, workload, and educators’ preparedness to provide effective classroom guidance.
Key takeaways:
- 55% of parents agree that teachers have shown students how to use AI effectively for schoolwork.
- 56% of staff say there are safeguards in place to protect personal privacy and data when AI is used at school.
- 41% of staff report that they must make significant changes to their teaching practices to use AI effectively.
“With 54% of parents and staff reporting that their students use AI tools for schoolwork, it’s clear that AI is no longer a future consideration for K-12 leaders,” says Sid Phillips, chief growth officer at Hanover Research. “K-12 organizations now face the immediate challenge of developing clear frameworks for the responsible, effective use of AI. Hanover’s timely survey findings highlight the concerns and educator support needs those frameworks must address.”
To explore the full survey findings and best practice recommendations, access Hanover’s infographic, K-12 AI Integration Trends: Insights on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Schools.
Founded in 2003, Hanover Research is a global research and analytics firm that delivers market intelligence through a unique, fixed-fee model to more than 1,000 clients. Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, Hanover employs high-caliber market researchers, analysts, and account executives to provide a service that is revolutionary in its combination of flexibility and affordability. Hanover has been named a Top 50 Market Research firm by the American Marketing Association and the Insights Association. To learn more about Hanover Research, visit www.hanoverresearch.com.
