Hey there, school board members! Strap in for a crucial dive into the world of cybersecurity within our Texas educational landscape. This course is tailored specifically for you, with the goal of empowering you to understand and tackle the increasing cyber threats our schools face. We'll break down the cyber jargon into digestible, actionable insights, covering key topics like cyber hygiene, data protection laws, ethical practices, and response strategies for potential breaches. You'll also gain a firm grasp on the role you play in fostering a cyber-aware culture, ensuring that our schools remain safe havens for learning and growth.

Think of this training as your cyber-shield; not only will you be boosting your own cyber-savvy powers, but you’ll also be better equipped to oversee the implementation of effective cybersecurity measures across your district. By the end of this adventure, you’ll be a beacon of cyber wisdom, ready to guide your district through the digital age with confidence and resilience. And let’s face it—being the tech-savvy member on the board is never a bad thing. So, prepare to transform that cyber curiosity into cyber mastery, and let's keep our schools one step ahead of the bad guys!

Dr. Berning possesses a rare blend of experience in IT governance, technology management, and education that aligns seamlessly with the imperatives of cybersecurity awareness. With over a quarter-century as a Chief Technology Officer in K-12 education, he has not only stewarded the technological framework but has been instrumental in nurturing safe digital environments for both learners and educators. This tenure in educational tech has been underscored by a personal commitment to fostering digital literacy and cybersecurity acumen, ensuring that school board members are well-prepared to navigate and oversee the increasingly complex cyber landscape in education.

Beyond his practical expertise, Dr. Berning’s academic background enriches his pedagogy. A Ph.D. in Educational Technology paired with deep roots in science education positions him uniquely to bridge the gap between complex technological concepts and their real-world application in the school systems. At the helm of The Renaissance Institute and his role at the University of Texas at Arlington, he is continually immersed in the latest research and developments in learning analytics, further informing his approach to teaching cybersecurity. His passion for empowering leaders in education with the knowledge to protect and enhance their technological ecosystems is at the core of his instruction, ensuring every school board member exits the course not just aware, but adept and proactive in cybersecurity matters.