A New York high school has introduced a pilot program featuring a humanoid robot named Sally and an AI teaching assistant designed to provide personalized learning support.

The $57,590 robot, purchased by the Cattaraugus County school district, is intended to supplement teachers and give students access to new AI and robotics tools.

Teachers and community members have criticized the program, raising concerns about privacy, security, and the impact of replacing human interaction with technology.

Some Native American residents also objected to the program being tested at a school with a large Indigenous student population, citing historical concerns and cultural sensitivity, The Guardian has reported.

State education officials said technology should support educators but warned it should not replace human judgment or the role of trained teachers.