New York School District Halts Humanoid Robot Use After Backlash 2026

The Salamanca City Central school district in New York has halted plans to introduce a humanoid robot named Sally into its high school after facing intense backlash from educators and the community. The pilot project, developed with Toronto-based Realbotix, was put on hold amid concerns over student data privacy and the company's prior association with sex doll manufacturing.

Why the Robot Program Was Suspended

The district announced on July 24 via social media that the project would be paused while it works through enhanced student data privacy agreements with the New York State Education Department. Community engagement will also continue before any further steps are taken. The reversal came after widespread criticism, particularly from the New York State United Teachers union, which condemned the use of a robot built by a company that acquired a sex doll manufacturer in 2021.

Realbotix and the $58,000 Robot Sally

According to a June press release, Sally is a humanoid robot with silicone skin and brown hair, capable of natural conversation, facial expressions, and real-time interaction. The goal was to create engaging, hands-on learning experiences and expose students to emerging technologies. However, the price tag of approximately $58,000 raised eyebrows, and the company's history drew sharp reactions.

Educators Speak Out

Melinda Person, president of the New York State United Teachers union, stated: “A robot built by a company associated with sex dolls has no business in our classrooms. Our students don’t need robots. They need real relationships with caring adults.” The union emphasized that human educators notice when students struggle and provide emotional support that no AI-powered robot can replace.

Key Takeaways from the Controversy

• School districts must thoroughly vet technology vendors, including their corporate history.
• Student data privacy agreements should be finalized before pilot programs are announced.
• Community input is critical when introducing AI or robotics in educational settings.
• The cost of such technology must be weighed against actual educational benefits.
• Human interaction remains irreplaceable in fostering student development.

What’s Next for Salamanca and AI in Education?

The Salamanca district, which serves a large Native American population on the Seneca Nation reservation, has promised to share updates as the privacy review proceeds. While AI and robotics continue to gain traction in classrooms nationwide, this case highlights the importance of transparent communication and ethical considerations.

FAQ

This incident serves as a cautionary tale for schools exploring AI and robotics. As technology advances, ensuring that it aligns with educational values and privacy laws is more important than ever.