Education is a constantly changing landscape. Our increasingly digital world has infiltrated our schools and classrooms. Today, school-issued laptops or tablets for each student, online testing, and digital learning are the norm in classrooms across the country. Digital technology provides great benefits to students and teachers alike, and certainly enhances student learning. However, with those benefits come significant and serious challenges.
Many schools are struggling with insufficient network capabilities and a lack of network security. For example, they may not have the high Internet speeds or wireless capacity needed to support online testing. They might lack the data protection needed to ensure their students’ privacy and safety online. That is why it is critical for schools to choose a data security solution that meets their unique needs. Not only are administrators, teachers, and students depending on data security—so are parents, namely when it comes to student records.
This fall, the Future of Privacy Forum released a report titled Parental Support for Technology and Data Use in Schools, generally aimed at understanding parent perspectives on technology and collection of data in their child’s school. An article from edSurge referenced the report results, stating, “Interestingly, almost all [parents] are more likely to support collecting and using data in an electronic record if they know a school or educational service provider is required to ensure proper security.”
A comprehensive, high-performing security solution for schools will:
- Identify hidden threats. Schools sometimes lack the IT resources or capacity to identify threats and vulnerabilities lurking within their system. If these threats are not addressed, sensitive student data can be stolen or lost.
- Increase teacher awareness. Teachers and administrators alike must be educated on the threats that exist so they can accurately report suspicious activity.
- Allow for secure data transfer. Schools must have a backup solution for important and sensitive data.
- Monitor all network devices and activities. Schools need to be aware of all mobile devices that are accessing their network, as well as control guest access.
- Increase bandwidth and strengthen wireless connectivity. To accommodate online testing, a school must be equipped with the appropriate bandwidth and wireless capacities. Otherwise, the success of testing and other important online activities are compromised.
Are you a K-12 administrator or IT professional seeking a secure, effective data solution for your school or District? Contact CHI Corporation today to learn more. Call now for a free network assessment from Extreme Networks.
