Safe learning experiences require strong cybersecurity
Schools manage a vast amount of sensitive information – including academic records, financial data, and personal details – which makes cybersecurity a critical part of student safety.
Through continued investment in systems, training, and threat response, we are building a secure, future-ready digital environment that ensures safe, uninterrupted learning for every student.
Key protections include:
- Multi-factor authentication for staff
- A 24/7 Security Operations Center (SOC)
- Ongoing network and infrastructure upgrades
- Annual staff training on cybersecurity best practices
- Routine phishing simulations and cyber incident drills
- Collaboration with national cybersecurity agencies (e.g., CISA, MS-ISAC)
- Intelligence sharing through the West Metro Security Consortium
- Seven-layered cybersecurity model to protect student data
Cyberattacks such as ransomware and phishing can shut down school networks, disrupting learning, operations, and communications. Schools are increasingly becoming targets of cyberattacks, emphasizing the need for stronger security measures. Since 2016, over 1,600 cybersecurity incidents have been reported in K-12 schools nationwide – including 32 in Minnesota. Most experts believe this is a significant undercount, estimating the actual number of incidents could be 4 to 10 times higher.
The cost of staying protected is increasing. Hopkins’ cybersecurity insurance premiums have quadrupled since 2021, reflecting rising attack volume across K-12 schools and the expense of recovering from a breach. Hopkins’ Capital Projects Levy funding supports cybersecurity initiatives.