
The Course
Hey there, school district staff! In a world that's increasingly online, staying safe from digital threats is non-negotiable, right? That's why this course dishes out the ABCs of cybersecurity, tailored just for you. We'll dig into the nitty-gritty of common cyber threats like phishing, malware, and those sneaky social engineering tactics that can catch anyone off-guard. It's not just scare tactics, though! We've got proactive strategies up our sleeve to help you spot a cyber scam from a mile away. Plus, we'll tackle the essentials of password security and internet safety practices that'll shield both your personal and school data from cyber bandits.
But it's not all doom and gloom! Harnessing these cybersecurity superpowers means you're safeguarding students' futures, too. Ever think about how a secure digital school environment can boost parents' and students' confidence in your district's commitment to safety? Yep, that's just one perk of mastering the art of cyber defense. Through interactive scenarios and hands-on activities, you'll learn how to apply savvy security measures in real-world situations. Whether you're answering emails or prepping online class materials, you'll be equipped with the know-how to protect sensitive information and be the cyber hero your school needs.
What you will learn
When crafting this course, I meticulously considered what you, as school district personnel, need to know to protect not only your own digital footprint but also the sensitive data of your students and colleagues. It's organized to walk you through the complexities of cybersecurity in a clear, manageable way, with each module building on the last. We've packed it full of practical tips and strategies that are easy to implement, so by the end of the training, you'll feel confident in your ability to spot threats, understand best practices, and contribute to a safer digital environment for your entire school community. This isn't just about learning; it's about empowering you to be a cybersecurity champion in your role.
This course was designed to provide School Districts with the necessary knowledge and tools to enhance their cybersecurity awareness. It will cover various topics such as understanding common cyber threats defined by CYBER.ORG and CISA. We will also discuss why it is essential to protect sensitive data through implementing best practices to prevent cyber attacks.
Curriculum
Your instructor
Dr. Berning combines extensive firsthand experience in IT governance with a profound passion for education to help strengthen the weave of cybersecurity in school districts. His impressive tenure as a chief technology officer in K-12 education spans over a quarter-century, where he played a pivotal role in fortifying network infrastructures and bringing contemporary online learning technologies to the forefront of educational environments. His commitment to protecting information is as enduring as his background as a chemistry teacher and air force veteran, showcasing a multifaceted understanding of the importance of cybersecurity in both educational and governmental institutions.
Now leading The Renaissance Institute as its president and contributing cutting-edge insights as a research scientist in learning analytics at the University of Texas at Arlington, Dr. Berning is dedicated to equipping school district personnel with the skills and awareness necessary to navigate the increasingly complex digital landscape. With a Ph.D. in Educational Technology and a track record of practical leadership, he expertly blends academic rigor with real-world applications to empower educators and support staff in creating a secure and thriving academic community.

Comprehensive
All-Encompassing Strategies to Safeguard School Information

Practical
Hands-On Defense Tactics for Protecting the Academic Environment

Proactive
Anticipating and Neutralizing Threats in Educational Networks