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As independent schools integrate technology more deeply into their educational practices and administrative operations, they face critical questions: How can they protect their digital ecosystems? What strategies can be employed to shield against cyber threats? Furthermore, how does cybersecurity intersect with the broader educational goals of fostering a safe and innovative learning environment?

Robert Olsen, Global Practice Leader for Cybersecurity and Data Privacy at Ankura Consulting Group, addresses these pressing concerns. Olsen emphasizes the necessity for schools to adopt a proactive approach to cybersecurity. This stance is not merely about defense but about building a resilient digital culture that can withstand and adapt to the evolving nature of cyber threats.

Olsen remarks, "The reality is, threat actors are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making it all the more important for schools to adopt a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity." This observation by Olsen highlights a critical challenge: the pace at which cyber threats evolve demands an equally dynamic and informed response from independent schools.

Transitioning from Olsen's overarching insights, Christina Lewellen, the Executive Director of ATLIS, and Hiram Cuevas, the Director of Information Systems and Academic Technology at St. Christopher's School, provide practical perspectives on implementing these strategies within the school setting. Lewellen advocates for integrating technology to enhance collaboration and break down barriers within the school community. She asserts, "It's about leveraging technology to break down walls and foster collaboration," underscoring the essential role of cybersecurity in safeguarding the community's integrity and privacy.

Cuevas adds a personal dimension to the discussion by sharing his experiences with technology's dual nature—its capacity to connect and expose. He reflects on using features like 'Find My' on Apple devices, balancing the convenience and peace of mind such technologies offer with the potential privacy concerns they raise. "It's not about monitoring but ensuring safety," Cuevas says, highlighting the nuanced approach required when integrating technology into educational settings.

Olsen builds on these individual perspectives by addressing the unique challenges independent schools face, such as limited resources, which can make the implementation of comprehensive cybersecurity measures seem daunting. He advises a strategic focus: "It's about identifying the most critical assets and focusing efforts on protecting those." This approach advocates for maximizing the impact of existing resources through prioritization and strategic investment.

Going deeper, Olsen explores the broader implications of cybersecurity within the educational sector, including privacy issues and the ethical use of technology. He champions the creation of a secure yet practical ecosystem. "The goal is to create a secure and nurturing environment where technology enhances the educational experience without compromising the privacy or safety of the school community," he elaborates.

Bill Stites, the Director of Technology at Montclair Kimberley Academy, often highlights the importance of transparent communication facilitated by technology. "Slack has become crucial for us," he might say, emphasizing the role of digital tools in bridging the communication gap across decentralized campuses. This reliance on digital platforms underscores the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect the flow of information.

Olsen's expertise not only sheds light on the challenges schools face in securing their digital domains but also offers a road map for navigating these challenges effectively. Through education, strategic investment in cybersecurity, and collaboration, schools can protect themselves and their students from digital threats, ensuring a safe and productive learning environment for all.

Resources:

• Connect with Robert on LinkedIn
• Cybersecurity Recommendations for Independent Schools
• ATLIS K-12 Cybersecurity Assessment
• ATLIS Cyber 101 Workshop
• 9ine Tech Academy
• EdSurge Product Index
• Common Sense Privacy
• iKeepSafe
• LearnPlatform
• Education Framework
• CISA - Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency
• K12 Six - K12 Security Information eXchange
• NIST - National Institute of Standards and Technology

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