- A school district in rural upstate New York has halted plans to introduce an AI-powered humanoid robot, Sally, into classrooms after state officials, teachers, and residents raised concerns.
- The Salamanca City Central School District had approved the nearly $60,000 acquisition to enhance high school robotics and technology education.
- Objections centred on data privacy, the robot's instructional role, and the manufacturer Realbotix's association with a company known for producing sex dolls.
- The New York State United Teachers union president, Melinda Person, strongly opposed the robot, arguing for human interaction over AI and fearing potential teacher replacement.
- The district insists Sally is for educational enrichment, will not collect personal data, and will not replace staff, but the pilot remains on hold for further agreements and community engagement.
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