Adam A. Phyall III, Ed.D.
Director of Professional Learning and Leadership
As the familiar hum of school buses fills the air, the excitement of a new academic year kicks in. Students return to their classrooms with fresh sneakers and bookbags, teachers are putting the finishing touches on their classroom decor, and parents snap first-day-of-school photos. However, for the technology leaders, it’s about more than issuing devices and ensuring users have the needed access.. Each year presents a renewed challenge of maximizing access for instruction while ensuring the needed security and digital safety inside school systems.
The New Age of Digital Learning
There’s no denying it, we’re in a digital learning age. With each passing year, there’s an influx of new devices, new software platforms, new vendors, and a fresh batch of tech-savvy students ready to explore these digital tools. Technology integration in education has indisputably opened the doors to innovative teaching methods, creating an engaging and inclusive learning environment.
However, with every “new” element introduced, there’s a lurking shadow of potential cyber threats. For school administrators and technology leaders, the task at hand is to ensure that technology facilitates learning while guaranteeing the safety of personal and institutional data.
Striking the Right Balance
Balancing access and security can sometimes feel like walking a tightrope. On one hand, we want to maximize educational access. On the other hand, the more we open, the more risk that can be involved. Here are some strategies to consider from the Future Ready & Microsoft Emerging Practices Guide on Balancing Access, Safety, and Cybersecurity:
- Embrace a Culture of Cybersecurity: Start by creating awareness among students, staff, and teachers. Regular training sessions on basic security measures, setting strong passwords, and recognizing phishing scams can go a long way.
- Limit Access: Only some people need access to all information. Implement user permissions and ensure that only those who need particular data can access it.
- Secure the Hardware: With many schools adopting guest or open wifi, it becomes more vital to secure outside devices. Develop policies to ensure devices have the necessary security protocols and that students and staff are trained on their responsibilities.
- Choose Vendors Wisely: With numerous educational software and platforms available, choosing vendors prioritizing security is essential. Always verify their security credentials and protocols.
- Backup, Backup, Backup: Regularly backup essential data. In case of a breach, you should be able to restore your system to its previous state without significant losses.
- Collaborate with Nearby Districts: Leverage the expertise of those in surrounding districts by sharing best practices, collaborating on ideas, and supporting one another as things change so rapidly.
A Continuous Journey
Cybersecurity is ever-evolving, with new challenges cropping up each day. As school leaders, while ensuring our students have the best resources available is crucial, it’s equally important to guarantee their safety and the safety of the institution’s data. This balance isn’t a one-time act but a continual journey, ensuring that as our classrooms evolve, so does our protective shield.
Remember, while the tightrope might seem daunting, it becomes manageable with the proper precautions and an informed community. Let’s embrace the digital age of learning with the knowledge and tools to keep our schools secure.
