Indiana Department of Education Announces New Initiative to Provide Cybersecurity Investments for K-12 Schools

INDIANAPOLIS – In partnership with the Indiana Office of Technology and the Indiana Information Sharing and Analysis Center, the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) announced today a new initiative to provide cybersecurity investments in K-12 schools across the state.

“Cybersecurity is a mission critical component in today’s technology-centered work and learning environments. It has become an industry with many demands and career opportunities. The Indiana Department of Education, along with our partners, recognize the importance of cyber education and is taking bold steps to prepare Hoosiers,” said Dr. Jennifer McCormick, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. “I want to thank those who see the value and necessity of this initiative and are committed to the vision of Indiana becoming a national leader in this work.”

New cybersecurity investments will involve a slate of programming aimed at improving cybersecurity in Indiana schools. Programming includes: a state provided platform for training and awareness on cybersecurity topics for all K-12 school personnel; funding for schools interested in offering a cybersecurity high school course starting in the 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 school years; the creation of a Cybersecurity Task Force coordinated through the Indiana Chief Technology Officer Council; and, matching grants of up to $25,000 for schools to improve their cybersecurity posture. The cybersecurity initiative is funded through the Department of Homeland Security.

“Cybersecurity continues to be a key area of concern for organizations, as well as a growing field for technology professionals,” said Dewand Neely, Chief Technology Officer for the Indiana Office of Technology. “The programs and resources dedicated by the Indiana Department of Education show both an investment in the State’s youth and the ability to generate a new pipeline of talent for a growing job sector. Further, this effort demonstrates the commitment to enhancing cybersecurity efforts within our State and improving the capabilities to respond quickly to events. This is a great opportunity for our schools to take preventive measures and reduce cyber risk.”

For more information regarding Indiana’s new Cybersecurity Initiative, please visit: www.doe.in.gov/cybersecurity.