Google’s AI integrations have been rapidly changing and evolving. Keeping up with these updates has been seriously difficult, even for me. In this quick post I’m going to try to clarify things for you as best I can.

✨ FREE Gemini for Education Features

Teachers and students will access Gemini by visiting Gemini.google.com.  When your staff and students use Gemini through their school account they receive access to some enhanced features: 

• Data privacy protections that match Gmail, Drive, and the rest of the core Google services
• Access to most advanced model (2.5 pro)
• Higher image creation limits (100/day)
• Admin control application access and features
• Audit support through Google Vault

These features are FREE for all Google Workspace for Education domains. Access to Gemini can be controlled through the admin console and certain Gemini features can be toggled on and off.

📑 NotebookLM

NotebookLM is separate from Gemini and emphasizes internal data rather than pulling in answers from across the web. Staff and students can access this service by visiting NotebookLM.google.com.

NotebookLM is a core Google Workspace service and is available for all Workspace for Education customers.

Like Gemini, NotebookLM can be managed through the Google Admin console, although there’s really only an on/off switch at this time. Individual features can’t be configured.

🔏 Data Privacy Protections

When you use a Workspace for Education account, data you share with Gemini and NotebookLM will NOT be used for training, research, or advertising. These AI tools are covered under the same data privacy agreement used for Gmail, Drive, and Calendar. This fundamental agreement is incredibly important and is included for ALL education customers at no cost. 

This type of data privacy is NOT included when you use tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, or Gemini with a personal Gmail account. 

💰 Google AI Pro for Education

For power users who are developing complex AI integrations, you may want to upgrade to Google AI pro for Education. This premium subscription ($20/user/month) includes a wide range of advanced features. Google AI Pro licenses can be purchased in any quantity from your Google Workspace reseller.

• Direct Gemini integration in Gmail, Drive, Calendar, etc
• Enhance AI features for Google Meet (transcription, translation, automated summaries, etc)
• Higher usage limits and context windows
• AI video generation
• Advanced creative options for Google Slides and Google Vids
• Scheduled AI actions (Agents)

Related Post: Google Gemini for Education has landed!

I have access to these advanced options and can report that it is good, but not essential. Only the most advanced user will be able to take advantage of these features. 

💡 What can we do with Gemini and NotebookLM? 

The applications for Gemini are endless! Imagination and creativity are your only limits! Here are some of my favorite applications: 

• Use Gemini to create a quiz or rubric directly in Google Classroom
• Create a custom Gem to develop custom lesson plans
• Use NotebookLM to generate study guides and flashcards
• Summarize information with audio summaries
• Get quick answers from complex policy documents using NotebookLM
• Code review games with Gemini (no coding required!)

AI Training for Teachers

Generative AI tools like Gemini and NotebookLM can SAVE TIME and open up creative new ideas for your teachers. Gemini is a hidden secret that your district should uncover! 

There are a variety of free training resources available for educators, including a new certification program. 

• Generative AI for Educators (free general AI course from Google)
• Get started with Google AI in K12 Education (free course from Google) 
• Gemini Educator Exam (free until Jan 1, 2026)

Looking for a more personal experience? I offer a variety of Gemini training options for schools and districts: 

• Wednesday Webinar with John (updated AI sessions for 2026)
• John’s AI workshops (in-person or virtual)

I’d love to help your teachers use AI in thoughtful ways. Get in touch and we can start a conversation!