As Oregon continues to grapple with the challenges facing its public education system, a new concern has emerged: the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 classrooms. While AI offers promising tools for personalized learning, this summer’s DHM panel survey showed that Oregonians worry about its impact on educational quality.
Public Perception of Oregon’s Schools Remains Low
Despite a slight uptick in ratings, Oregonians continue to view their public schools critically. In 2025, Oregonians gave public schools an average GPA of 2.0—equivalent to a C grade—while their local schools received a slightly higher 2.2. These scores mark a modest improvement from previous years: in July 2019, Oregon’s schools were rated 1.7 and local schools 2.1; in June 2024, the ratings were 1.8 and 2.0 respectively. The incremental progress suggests some optimism, but overall satisfaction remains low.
According to the US News, Oregon’s pre-K through 12 education system ranks 44th in the nation in 2025, with high school graduation rates at 45th. These rankings align with the public’s critical views of Oregon’s public education and reinforce the urgency for systemic improvements.
Oregon Takes Action through Increased Education Funding and Accountability
In June 2025, Oregon lawmakers approved $11.4 billion in education funding. Despite this record high education spending, Oregonians remain concerned about our schools’ budget. 52% of Oregonians say they believe K-12 schools face a serious funding problem and that current resources are insufficient to meet student needs.
The perception of underfunding varies across political lines. Democrats (59%) and NAV/Other voters (54%) are more likely to say schools lack adequate funding, while Republicans tend to believe that better resource management could meet student needs without additional funding (51%, as opposed to 37% who say that schools lack adequate funding).
Balancing AI’s Benefits and Risks
A growing concern among Oregonians is the impact of AI on student learning. More than three in four Oregonians worry that increased AI use by students could degrade the quality of education in their communities. This concern spans across demographic groups, with particularly strong sentiment among lower-income residents (80% of those with household incomes under $100K are concerned, compared to only 65% of those with incomes of $150K or higher).
AI in education presents both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, it can personalize learning, tailor materials to individual needs, and improve accessibility through tools like text-to-speech. On the other hand, critics worry that students may rely on AI for writing assignments, potentially stifling creativity and critical thinking. Privacy and data security are also major concerns, as highlighted in a Stanford article from 2024. The key will be finding a balance that enhances learning without compromising educational integrity.
Oregonians feel that their public schools are in need of improvement. At the same time, the rise of AI introduces complex questions about the future of education. As technology becomes more embedded in classrooms, educators and policymakers must work together to ensure it supports—not undermines—student success.