The Cyber Shield: Building K–12 Resilience in an Era of Escalating Threats

Cyberattacks on schools are no longer rare, they’re rampant, costly, and growing more sophisticated. From ransomware takedowns to phishing exploits, K12 institutions are now prime targets for cybercriminals. This session empowers educational leaders, IT professionals, and administrators with the knowledge and tools to defend their digital ecosystems. Explore real-world district case studies, learn the critical steps to develop a cybersecurity incident response plan, and examine how the FCC’s new Cybersecurity Pilot Program is being leveraged. You’ll also gain insights into aligning cybersecurity with data privacy laws (like FERPA and COPPA), insurance requirements, and budget strategies post-ESSER. Walk away with practical frameworks, free tools, and actionable policies to strengthen your district’s digital defenses. Whether you're an edtech leader or a school administrator, now is the time to elevate cybersecurity from a tech issue to a leadership priority.