Recently, OpenAI announced that it will provide its advanced generative AI tool, ChatGPT, free of charge to certified K-12 teachers in the United States, with the service period ending in June 2027. The newly launched "Teacher-specific ChatGPT" version is designed to provide educators with a safe working environment, helping them adapt to classroom needs. The platform is equipped with teacher-specific controls, data privacy protection, and school management features.

ChatGPT

Image source note: The image is AI-generated, and the image licensing service provider is Midjourney

According to OpenAI's press release, teachers can use this secure workspace to prepare course materials more efficiently, collaborate with colleagues during their spare time, and master the use of artificial intelligence on their own terms. Schools can create a unified secure account for staff, ensuring compliance with educational privacy and security regulations, including protecting student data and supporting the requirements of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

As the adoption rate of AI tools among educators continues to rise, this initiative by OpenAI is particularly important. According to a Gallup survey cited by OpenAI, about six in ten teachers used some AI tool during the 2024-25 academic year. The survey also showed that teachers who used AI tools saved an average of 5.9 hours per week, equivalent to an additional six weeks of time per year. Most teachers also reported that using AI tools improved the quality of their work, including grading, curriculum planning, administrative documents, and communication.

In addition, OpenAI has launched a resource called the "Youth AI Literacy Blueprint," which helps schools support ethical human-AI collaboration. The blueprint emphasizes that safety measures alone are not enough; teachers, families, and communities need to work together to cultivate young people's ability to use AI reasonably and efficiently. At the same time, OpenAI has also partnered with the American Federation of Teachers, pledging to provide $10 million over five years to support educators in developing or implementing AI tools in the classroom.

With this updated Teacher-specific ChatGPT, teachers can use the GPT-5.1Auto model, which includes file upload and analysis, image generation tools, and integration with Google Workspace and Microsoft 365. OpenAI has also prepared a prompt library tested by teachers to help them get started quickly, reducing the time spent on curriculum planning or administrative tasks. In the future, OpenAI stated that pricing may be adjusted after June 2027, but they will notify teachers and schools in advance to allow for proper planning.

Key points:

- 📚 OpenAI provides ChatGPT for free to certified K-12 teachers, with the service ending in 2027.

- ⏰ Teachers who use AI tools save about 6 hours of work time per week on average.

- 🛡️ OpenAI launches the Youth AI Literacy Blueprint, promoting ethical AI use.