Technology fuels modern learning, powering everything from digital lessons to school operations. But it also creates new vulnerabilities that cybercriminals are eager to exploit. Over the past few years, cyberattacks on K–12 schools have surged—threatening instruction, exposing sensitive data, and diverting resources that should be supporting students.
While these challenges continue to grow, recent decisions in Washington have scaled back essential programs and staffing that schools rely on to stay protected.
Key Resources at Risk
Two federal entities have been instrumental in helping schools navigate cybersecurity:
- The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) provided critical tools and real-time intelligence to help districts identify and respond to threats.
- The Office of Educational Technology (OET) at the U.S. Department of Education offered national leadership and strategic guidance on how to implement technology safely and effectively.
Recent funding cuts have disrupted both. The elimination of CISA’s K–12 cybersecurity initiatives, including access to MS-ISAC services, and staffing reductions at OET have left schools with fewer resources precisely when the stakes have never been higher.
Why This Matters
For many districts—especially those in smaller or rural communities—these supports were lifelines. Without them, schools face:
- Limited access to timely threat intelligence
- Fewer resources to prevent and respond to attacks
- Reduced national leadership on using technology equitably and securely
A Collective Call to Action
The Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) is leading a national effort to reverse these setbacks. Their petition urges policymakers to:
- Reestablish funding for CISA’s K–12 cybersecurity programs
- Restore OET staffing and leadership capacity
- Increase targeted investments to help schools build stronger defenses
How You Can Help
Protecting our schools is a shared responsibility—and every signature sends a powerful message. If you believe every student deserves a safe digital learning environment, take a moment to add your name. Sign the Petition Here
