As technology continues to be integrated into schools for everything from school administration and record-keeping to classroom projects and remote learning, there’s no question that schools are facing increasing cybersecurity challenges, and threats are growing rather than diminishing.
Earlier this year, an article in Forbes Magazine pointed out that K-12 schools are now the most common target for ransomware attacks. On average, one school suffers a data breach from bad actors every day. These attacks can cause disruptions that often result in financial losses, but they may also cause costly school closures and subject both students and staff to identity theft and other threats.
This situation is a wake-up call to all K-12 administrators, staff, and IT personnel to prioritize cybersecurity in school settings. Protecting student data, securing networks, and managing devices are all crucial tasks for everyone involved, including students. At NCCE 25, one of the most important summits will take place on February 26 and discuss IT and cybersecurity issues facing K-12 schools in extensive detail. This summit is designed to raise awareness as well as provide school administrators with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect their institutions and personnel from cyber threats.
Summit Leaders
The NCCE Cybersecurity Summit will feature two accomplished leaders: Pete Just and Anu Jokinen. Pete Just, a seasoned IT professional, served as CTO for Wayne Schools and chaired the Indiana K12 Cyber Security Task Force, with extensive experience in digital innovation and security. Anu Jokinen, Senior Director of Instructional Technology, has 15 years of expertise in education technology, helping districts implement cutting-edge solutions. Both bring a wealth of knowledge in technology leadership, making them ideal facilitators for addressing cybersecurity challenges in education. In addition to these authorities, there will be a team panel discussion with representatives from CISA (Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency) and the FBI to discuss the primary threats to educational institutions, the measures being taken to curb these threats, and the proactive steps schools can take to protect themselves.
Session Overview: Cybersecurity in K-12 Schools
Five fundamental areas are the focus of most IT and cybersecurity concerns in K-12 education:
- Data Privacy and Protection
- Phishing and other Social Engineering Attacks
- Network Security
- Device and Endpoint Management
- Cyberbullying and Online Safety
NCCE 25’s IT Cybersecurity Summit will explore the specific challenges faced by K-12 institutions and offer actionable strategies and best practices for enhancing system security. Attendees will leave with practical knowledge and a better understanding of the risks their schools face, as well as how to mitigate them. Protecting school systems requires a multifaceted approach that includes protective software, network security practices, active monitoring, and extensive training for all school personnel, including students, regarding what to watch out for and how to manage private information.
Who Should Attend?
This session is ideal for vital staff within K-12 schools, including:
- School Administrators: Principals, vice principals, and district leaders responsible for the overall safety of their schools.
- IT Directors and Staff: Individuals responsible for managing and securing school networks, systems, and devices.
Each of the professionals who carry out these roles faces distinct challenges when it comes to IT and cybersecurity. This session will provide advice applicable to each group, ensuring that all participants leave with relevant and actionable takeaways.
A Must-Attend Session
Unfortunately, as schools increasingly become targets for cyberattacks, school personnel have no choice but to become more wary and savvy about the risks they face. A successful phishing attack, a compromised device, or an unprotected network can lead to drastic consequences, including data theft, disrupted learning environments, financial loss, and personal attacks on the security and safety of students and school personnel. Understanding these risks and taking preventive steps are essential for maintaining a secure educational environment.
This summit promises to be an essential resource for anyone involved in management, support, or instruction using online tools in K-12 schools and for IT specialists who operate school networks. By addressing these issues, participants will be better equipped to protect their schools, students, and staff. Don’t miss this valuable opportunity to gain critical insights into protecting your educational institution from growing cyber threats. Register for NCCE 25 today.