Networks Keep K–12 Classrooms Running
The backbone of any school is a reliable network. Modern networking solutions power the classroom technologies that students and teachers use every day. Districts are thinking one step ahead, implementing networking solutions that not only support the needs of today but also are ready for what tomorrow will bring. At New Trier Township High School District 203, a networking solution orchestrated before the arrival of artificial intelligence has set the district up to meet bandwidth requirements for the next decade.
In the same way that networking powers classrooms, data powers K–12 decision-making. In order for teachers and administrators to do their jobs effectively, they need a well-rounded picture of the students they’re serving. And in order for this to be done efficiently and securely, the data being collected every day needs to be governed properly. At Wayland Public Schools in Massachusetts, formalized data governance documentation outlines data ownership and policies.
Cyber resilience is key to keeping that data protected. The biggest threat to security is human error, which is why districts are increasingly rolling out security awareness training. By educating teachers, staff and students about the dangers of phishing, IT teams are hoping to cut down on users clicking on malicious links that lead to cyber breaches. Those who complete the training can use that knowledge to practice good cyber hygiene throughout their lives.
Thanks to this unseen work by IT leaders and administrators, students and staff have the tools they need for modern teaching. Classrooms and learning spaces with high bandwidth needs, such as STEM centers that enable innovative learning with robotics and industrial equipment, would not be possible without the seemingly invisible technological infrastructure that supports them.
