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A Step Towards Secure Networks: New FCC Cybersecurity Pilot

by Matt Russell
written by Matt Russell

In today’s digital age, schools and libraries are becoming increasingly reliant on technology to provide essential services and educational opportunities. However, this growing dependency also makes them vulnerable to cyber threats. Recognizing this critical need, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has launched a new initiative to enhance cybersecurity for these institutions. The Schools and Libraries Cybersecurity Pilot Program, with a budget of up to $200 million over three years, aims to bolster the defenses of broadband networks and data in schools and libraries. Here’s why this initiative is a game-changer for educational technology.

The Need for Robust Cybersecurity in Education

Educational institutions are treasure troves of sensitive information, and the protection of this information is paramount. Cyberattacks on schools and libraries can disrupt educational processes, compromise personal information, and result in significant financial losses. The FCC’s Cybersecurity Pilot Program addresses these vulnerabilities by providing the necessary resources to implement advanced cybersecurity measures. 

Who Can Apply?

Eligibility for the Pilot Program extends to schools, libraries, and “consortia” of these institutions that meet the E-Rate program’s requirements. This inclusivity ensures that a wide range of educational institutions, regardless of their previous participation in the E-Rate program, can benefit from enhanced cybersecurity.

How to Apply

The application process for the program is two-fold:

  1. Part One: General Information and Proposal Submission
    • Applicants must provide details about their experience with cybersecurity, their commitment to best practices, and their use of federal resources.
    • A description of the proposed project, including goals, objectives, and the cybersecurity risks it aims to mitigate, must be included.
  2. Part Two: Detailed Cybersecurity Information
    • Selected participants will provide comprehensive details about their current cybersecurity measures, history of cyber threats, training policies, and challenges faced.

The FCC plans to open the application window this Fall, and interested parties should prepare their proposals accordingly.

Eligible Services and Equipment

Participants in the Pilot Program can seek reimbursement for a wide array of cybersecurity eligible services and equipment. This broad scope ensures that institutions can tailor their cybersecurity measures to their specific needs and vulnerabilities.

Selection Criteria

To ensure a diverse range of Pilot projects, the FCC will prioritize funding for a mix of large and small, urban and rural schools, and libraries, with a special emphasis on low-income and Tribal applicants. This approach aims to address the cybersecurity needs of the most vulnerable populations effectively.

Post-Application Process

Once selected, participants will be notified via Public Notice and provided with instructions for the next steps, including the competitive bidding process for procuring cybersecurity services. Successful applicants will receive a Funding Commitment Decision Letter (FCDL) to formalize their funding approval. This structured process ensures transparency and accountability in the use of funds.

Safeguards Against Misuse

To prevent waste, fraud, and abuse, the Pilot Program incorporates several safeguards. Participants must adhere to competitive bidding, document retention, and audit requirements. Additionally, stringent penalties are in place for non-compliance, ensuring that funds are used appropriately and effectively.

The TCEA applauds the FCC’s Schools and Libraries Cybersecurity Pilot Program. This initiative is a significant step towards securing the digital infrastructure of our educational institutions, safeguarding sensitive data, and ensuring uninterrupted learning. By investing in robust cybersecurity measures, we can create a safer, more resilient educational environment for students, educators, and the community.

TCEA encourages eligible schools and libraries to prepare their applications and take full advantage of this invaluable opportunity. For more information, stay tuned for updates from the FCC and the TCEA. Let’s work together to make our educational institutions cyber-safe!

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Explore the 2024 National Education Technology Plan to learn how we can promote equitable and effective use of ed tech in schools and districts.
Advocacy

The 2024 National Educational Technology Plan (NETP): Closing the Digital Divide

by Matt Russell
written by Matt Russell

The 2024 National Educational Technology Plan (NETP) recently unveiled by the U.S. Department of Education marks a significant milestone in educational technology. Titled “A Call to Action for Closing the Digital Access, Design, and Use Divides,” the NETP underlines a strategic shift from merely assessing the landscape of educational technology to addressing specific challenges that hinder its transformative potential in enhancing teaching and learning. Here’s a breakdown of how the plan addresses these challenges and the role organizations like the Texas Computer Education Association (TCEA) can play in overcoming them.

The 2024 National Educational Technology Plan (NETP) recently unveiled by the U.S. Department of Education. titled "A Call to Action for Closing the Digital Access, Design, and Use Divides."
Screenshot by Emily Horn | The Office of Educational Technology | A Call to Action for Closing the Digital Access, Design, and Use Divides

Somewhere between the promise of transformation and the barriers to realizing that promise lies the potential for states, districts, and schools to build systems that better ensure that ed tech’s promise is afforded to all students, no matter their geography, background, or individual context.

A Call to Action for Closing the Digital Access, Design, and Use Divides, pg. 8

The Three Digital Divides Framed by the NETP

1. The Digital Use Divide

At the core of the digital use divide is the need to enhance how students utilize technology in learning. This divide isn’t just about logging in but engaging students in dynamic ways to use technology creatively and critically. The NETP emphasizes applications that enable students to explore, create, and critically analyze academic content through digital means, which not only increases engagement but also promotes deeper understanding and retention of knowledge.

2. The Digital Design Divide

Educators are the architects of the learning experience, and the digital design divide focuses on empowering them through professional development. It’s about giving teachers the tools and knowledge to craft educational experiences that leverage technology effectively. This includes training in the latest digital tools and innovative teaching methods that cater to diverse learner needs.

3. The Digital Access Divide

Access remains a fundamental barrier for many students and educators. The 2024 NETP highlights not just the importance of physical access to devices and connectivity but also the need for digital content that is inclusive and accessible to all learners. This means ensuring resources are available for diverse learning needs, including those related to health, safety, and digital citizenship.

TCEA’s Role in Meeting NETP Goals

Professional Development and Educator Support

TCEA offers a wealth of resources, webinars, courses, and PD services to support educators.
Learn More About Professional Learning with TCEA

TCEA offers a plethora of resources and training for educators to hone their technology integration skills. Through workshops, certifications, and webinars, educators can learn to design more engaging and effective learning experiences. This directly addresses the Digital Design Divide by equipping teachers with the skills to implement and sustain technology-driven education.

Advocacy and Resources for Equitable Access

Learn More About Advocating for Learning without Limits

TCEA advocates for policies that ensure equitable access to technology. By working with policymakers, educational leaders, and the community, TCEA helps to push for the necessary funding and initiatives that close the access gap. This includes promoting affordability and availability of high-speed internet and modern devices to all educational districts, particularly in underserved areas.

Community Building and Collaboration

Learn More About TCEA’s Community & Membership

A major strength of TCEA is its ability to foster community among educators. Through conferences, a resource library, and an online community, educators share insights, strategies, and experiences with their peers, creating a rich pool of knowledge and support. This collaborative environment helps in mitigating the challenges of the digital design divide by fostering a community of practice that supports continuous learning and adaptation in the use of technology.

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HB 900 Changes for TX Public School Libraries
AdvocacyLibraries

HB 900: Changes Affecting Texas Public School Libraries

by Matt Russell
written by Matt Russell

One of the more contentious issues affecting public education and the state legislature during the 88th legislative session this past year was what types of books should be allowed in Texas public school libraries. Let’s take a look at information on TX HB 900 and the mandatory school library collection development standards.

The interior of a school library with tables, chairs, shelves, and lots of books.

What Is TX HB900?

HB 900, the READER Act (Restricting Explicit and Adult-Designated Educational Resources), by Representative Jared Patterson (R-Denton) was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott on September 1, 2023. It mandated that the Texas State Libraries and Archives Commission (TSLAC), with approval from the State Board of Education (SBOE), develop and adopt new mandatory school library collection development standards applicable to all Texas public school districts. These mandatory collection development standards became effective on January 3, 2024, with enforcement of the new standards being the responsibility of the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

Lorenzo de Zavala State Archives and Library Building - Austin, Texas
Daderot, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

How Will HB 900 Be Implemented?

There has been a great deal of confusion and uncertainty about how HB 900 will be implemented and, while much of the newly mandated collection development standards are similar to prior years, there were some significant changes.

The new standards define “sexually explicit” and “sexually relevant” material and require booksellers and publishers to assign “sexually explicit” and “sexually relevant” ratings. These ratings are required for any material for future circulation or currently in circulation that the seller determines meets the law’s definitions.

Additionally, the new standards require that sellers recall materials sold to a district that the seller has rated “sexually explicit.” Materials rated “sexually explicit” may not be sold to Texas school districts. Materials rated “sexually relevant” require parental consent for a student to check out the material. Sellers are required to submit their first report listing library materials they have rated “sexually relevant” or “sexually explicit” to the TEA by April 1, 2024.

United States Court for the Western District of Texas Ruling

Due to this new state mandate, a coalition of booksellers and publishers (plaintiffs) filed suit against the TSLAC, the SBOE, and the TEA (defendants) in the United States Court for the Western District of Texas in July of 2023. The district court issued an injunction and ruled in favor of the plaintiffs, citing that the new mandate violated the plaintiffs’ First and Fourteenth Amendment rights as defined by the U.S. Constitution. 

United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit Ruling

United States Court of Appeals Fifth Circuit Seal

Lawyers representing the defendants proceeded to file an appeal with the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. On January 17, 2024, in a unanimous opinion, the court found the statute compelling the booksellers and publishers to rate books, “…likely violates the First Amendment” and affirmed the western district court’s preliminary injunction against the defendants. The United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit did however stipulate that all other mandates contained in the adopted School Library Programs: Collection Development Standards shall continue to be implemented.

Will an Appeal Be Filed to the United States Supreme Court?

The final recourse of the defendants would be to file an appeal with the United States Supreme Court. It is yet to be determined if an appeal will be filed. So, as it stands currently, booksellers and publishers selling to Texas public school libraries do not have to rate the books that they sell.  

Sarah Chapman, Flour Bluff High School’s Lead Librarian originally presented this information during TCEA’s Lunch and Learn on Legislative Changes Affecting Texas Public School Districts. You can sign up for TCEA’s Lunch and Learn’s here. The information provided is intended to convey general information only and not to provide legal advice or opinions. 

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Texas Capital Building
Advocacy

Texas Special Legislative Session Update

by Matt Russell
written by Matt Russell

The 88th Texas Legislature has been called back to Austin for its third special session, focusing on border security, COVID-19 vaccine mandates, and school choice, according to the agenda that is set forth by Governor Greg Abbott.

Funding and School Choice Initiatives

Previously, in the 88th Regular Session that ended in June, approximately $4 billion in extra funding that had been budgeted and intended for public education enhancements and teacher pay raises was left unapproved due to a lack of agreement on the debate around school choice. Now, new public education funding and school choice initiatives are being reconsidered jointly in the third special session by members of the legislature.

HB 1 Proposes School Funding Increase

Texas House Education Chairman Brad Buckley (R-Salado) has proposed HB 1, a comprehensive bill aiming to increase school funding. This bill includes the basic allotment, provides teacher pay raises, and tackles school choice. Collaborating closely with TCEA, the bill incorporates two significant educational initiatives and legislative priorities that TCEA has long advocated for.

  1. The establishment of a Digital Teaching Micro Credential which would recognize educators’ expertise in virtual and blended education.
  2. The implementation of recommendations from the Texas Virtual School Commission; including professional development grants for professional development in virtual instruction.

TCEA’s Role and Legislative Priorities

TCEA will continue to play a robust role, actively working to ensure that these transformative educational initiatives are passed into law. TCEA has advocated for good public policy regarding the use of technology in our classrooms and districts for many years. We have been successful in helping to shape the policies regarding the availability and use of digital tools and resources, but there are still barriers that must be addressed.

TCEA thanks members like Chairman Brad Buckley, Representative Keith Bell, Senator Paul Bettencourt, Representative Steve Allison, and Chairman Brandon Creighton for their support of TCEA legislative priorities.

Learn More about TCEA’s Legislative Priorities
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AdvocacyArtificial Intelligence

New AI Recommendations from the U.S. Office of Educational Technology

by Matt Russell
written by Matt Russell

In a significant move towards integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the educational landscape, the United States Office of Educational Technology has released a set of comprehensive recommendations for educators. 

The Benefits and Risks of AI in Education

The integration of AI in education promises a myriad of benefits, from personalized learning experiences to real-time feedback. However, it also brings forth challenges, including concerns about data privacy, potential biases in AI algorithms, and the risk of misuse by students.

The U.S. Department of Education Office of Educational Technology’s recent policy report titled, “Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Teaching and Learning: Insights and Recommendations,” emphasizes the importance of disseminating knowledge, involving educators, and fine-tuning technology strategies and guidelines for AI integration in education. 

The report characterizes AI as an evolving suite of technologies designed for data pattern recognition and action automation, and it offers guidance to educators on leveraging these technologies to further educational objectives, all while assessing and mitigating associated risks. 

U.S. Office of Educational Technology’s Recommendations:

Emphasize Humans in the Loop: AI should augment, not replace, educators. The irreplaceable human touch must remain central to education.

Align AI Models to a Shared Vision for Education: AI tools should be evaluated based on their alignment with overarching educational goals, not just outcomes.

Design Using Modern Learning Principles: AI applications should be rooted in contemporary educational principles and be inclusive of all learners.

Prioritize Strengthening Trust: Trust in AI tools is crucial. This can be fostered through transparency, collaboration, and continuous feedback.

Inform and Involve Educators: Educators should be integral to the AI integration process, from design to deployment.

Focus R&D on Addressing Context and Enhancing Trust and Safety: Research should delve into the diverse contexts of AI tool usage and ensure their safety and reliability.

Develop Education-Specific Guidelines and Guardrails: As AI becomes more prevalent in education, clear guidelines and regulations are essential to ensure its safe and effective use.

For more information on these recommendations and their implications, visit the U.S. Office of Educational Technology’s official report or contact the Texas Computer Education Association Advocacy team. Additionally, TCEA’s System Administrator and Technical Support Conference (Nov. 2-3), Conference for Educational Coaches (Oct. 12-13), and our annual TCEA Convention & Exposition (Feb. 3-7) will all offer some fantastic opportunities for learning about AI in education

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Advocacy

Help Bridge the Digital Divide in Texas by Taking This Public Survey

by Matt Russell
written by Matt Russell

In the pursuit of digital equity, the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program, under the umbrella of the federal $42.5 billion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), has earmarked a new historic allocation of $3.3 billion for broadband expansion in Texas. This allocation represents a pivotal investment aimed at enhancing access to reliable, high-speed internet and closing the digital divide across the state.

Image of the BEAD Program home page.
Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program

While we acknowledge this unprecedented funding, it is important to recognize that Texas, despite having the highest federal funding allocation, also has one of the largest number of unserved addresses in the nation, highlighting the scale of the task at hand.

How You Can Help

Public feedback is a pivotal component of this planning process. As leading professionals in the field of education and technology, your insights and perspectives are invaluable to this process. By contributing to the discourse, you can help to shape a robust and effective strategy that optimizes the allocated funding and addresses the broadband needs of the state – specifically for our schools and their students.

You can contribute to an improved understanding of the challenges Texas households are facing in accessing affordable and reliable internet service by participating in the Texas Digital Opportunity Public Survey. This information will directly inform the Texas Digital Opportunity Plan.

Image of the Texas Digital Opportunity Public Survey home page
Texas Digital Opportunity Public Survey

Take 10-15 Minutes to Complete an Anonymous Survey 

The deadline for the survey is August 31 and TCEA encourages each one of you to take the 10-15 minutes to complete the survey and to share it with your networks. The survey, which is anonymous and available in English, Spanish, Mandarin, and Vietnamese, is designed to identify barriers to internet access, affordability, and adoption.

Why Does It Matter?

As a member of TCEA, your participation is vital to ensuring a comprehensive and representative digital strategy for Texas education. With your assistance, we can help to bridge the digital divide and ensure that the forthcoming expansion of broadband services benefits all Texas educators and students.

TCEA thanks you for your participation and contributions to this crucial endeavor.

Take the Survey Now
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Advocacy

An Urgent Appeal for Virtual and Digital Education in Texas

by Matt Russell
written by Matt Russell

In the 88th Regular Session, transformative legislative proposals such as HB 681 by Rep. Keith Bell, SB 1861 by Sen. Paul Bettencourt, and HB 4358 by Rep. Steve Allison would have had the potential to redefine public education in Texas, positioning the state as leaders in digital and virtual education. 

Headshots of Rep. Keith Bell, Sen. Paul Bettencourt, and Rep. Steve Allison

Virtual and Hybrid Education Options

The proposed legislation, although unsuccessful in securing final passage in the final weeks of the legislative session, offered an innovative framework for districts and charter schools to extend high-quality hybrid and virtual education options in Texas. By enabling parents to work with schools in selecting the most suitable learning modality for their child, this legislation broadened the educational opportunities available to students, without undermining the role of traditional learning environments.

Flexible Learning Models and Advances Courses

The legislation was also designed to empower students with flexible learning models that foster work-based learning and apprenticeships, augmenting the impact of early college, Career and Technical Education (CTE), and PTECH models. Importantly, it ensured equal access to advanced courses across the state, resolving current access and hiring challenges, particularly in rural areas.

Commitment to Quality and Accountability

The legislation carried a commitment to quality and accountability, promising high-quality options for all students, stringent safeguards for students with special needs, and strong accountability measures for student outcomes.

Consideration for Educators

It also respected the needs of our teachers, prohibiting pandemic-style simultaneous instruction and guaranteeing optional participation in virtual teaching.

TCEA also believes in the importance of a Digital Teaching Micro-Credential for educators, which would recognize their expertise in virtual and blended education and student success within the existing continuing education framework.

The Urgency of Prioritizing Virtual and Digital Education Legislation

Quote "We strongly encourage Governor Greg Abbott to consider adding legislation including virtual and digital education to any upcoming special session."

To develop an education system responsive to the future of teaching and learning, similar legislation to HB 681, HB 4358 and SB 1861 are vital, especially since there is a sunset date currently in the virtual education code that ends this school year. Without the aforementioned legislation, tens of thousands of students who have been choosing a virtual or hybrid option would immediately lose it. 

Therefore, on behalf of TCEA’s 80,000 member educators, we strongly encourage Governor Greg Abbott to consider adding legislation including virtual and digital education to any upcoming special session.

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Photo of the Texas Capitol Building with title: May 2023 Advocacy Update: Recap of the 88th Texas Legislative Session
Advocacy

Recap of the 88th Texas Legislative Session

by Matt Russell
written by Matt Russell

The Texas Computer Education Association (TCEA) has long been an advocate for the incorporation of technology in education, expanding access to broadband, digital and virtual learning, and increased cybersecurity and technology infrastructure. While we wait for a pending special session(s) on additional school funding, the 88th Texas Legislative Session concluded on Monday, May 29. Let’s take a look at where things ended as it relates to TCEA’s advocacy efforts.

Broadband Access

A notable achievement in access to broadband was the passage of HB 9 by Rep. Trent Ashby, which establishes the Texas Broadband Infrastructure Fund with $230,200,000 to ensure widespread access to reliable high-speed broadband. Equally instrumental is SB 1238 by Sen. Robert Nichols, which permits the State Broadband Development Office to provide financial incentives for expanding broadband service access, including those critical to remote learning and in equipment education.

Technology and Instructional Needs

As part of the State Budget (HB 1), the following funding was passed:

  • Just over $1 billion for the Technology and Instructional Materials Allotment (TIMA)
  • $56 million for school district cybersecurity
  • $49.4 million for virtual education
  • $10 million for computer science professional development
  • $12 million for interactive online learning models
  • $500,000 for a digital teaching micro-credential program

Digital and Virtual Learning

Our work in digital and virtual learning saw mixed results. HB 681/SB 1861 by Rep. Keith Bell and Sen. Paul Bettencourt would have:

  • Enabled public school districts and charter schools to offer virtual and hybrid options to respond effectively to family and student demand for approaches that fit learners’ unique needs.
  • Created adequate and equitable funding mechanisms and an authorization process to open new virtual and hybrid campuses.
  • Ensured access to advanced coursework in the face of longstanding challenges like local course availability and teacher shortages through continued access to individual virtual courses.
  • Incorporated the many unanimous recommendations from the Texas Virtual School Commission.

Unfortunately, political forces stalled the bill in the last week of the regular session. TCEA is hopeful for its inclusion in a future special session.

Micro-Credentials for Educators

Additionally, HB 4358 by Rep. Steve Allison would have established a digital teaching micro-credential for educators, recognizing their expertise in virtual and blended education. It received significant support in the House and Senate and was even added to major bills such as SB 9 and HB 100. However, the language was never adopted due to politics in the last week of the regular session; thus, necessitating further action in a future special session.

Digital Devices, Materials, and Textbooks

HB 18 passed by Rep. Shelby Slawson proposed standards for permissible electronic devices and software applications in schools that TEA will implement. TCEA remained neutral given its political complexity. Similarly, HB 1605 by Rep. Brad Buckley proposed a new unified process for instructional materials reviews, including a supplemental funding formula and an additional printing fund. TEA will be required to ensure free open-source digital textbooks are available to districts.

K-8 Technology

In any legislative session, there are also bills that would negatively impact technology integration in classrooms that TCEA opposed. For instance, HB 5104 sought to ban electronic devices and digital instruction for K-8 grades, and SB 2141 intended to eliminate the technology applications curriculum for K-5 grades. Neither of these two measures was ultimately passed.

Special Session(s)

The 88th Texas Legislative Session saw important strides and setbacks, and TCEA remains dedicated to ensuring technology’s constructive role in education. We appreciate your continued support and look forward to additional progress in the impending special session(s). Stay tuned for more advocacy updates!

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Image with quote "When it comes to shrinking the digital divide, it will take a holistic approach."
AdvocacyEquity, Diversity, Inclusion

How to Access Free Internet and Shrink the Digital Divide

by Steve Campion
written by Steve Campion

If the present is digital, the future is even more digital. That’s especially true in the classroom. Technology is increasingly intertwined with education. This is precisely why shrinking the digital divide is more important than ever. There are two issues to be recognized by educators that are at the center of the divide – access and adoption. Addressing these issues is key to expanding educational opportunities and unlocking a future of unlimited possibilities, especially among underserved communities. 

A photo of a classroom full of students holding Project Up boxes

Expanding Internet Access 

Let’s talk about access. A wired broadband connection is the most reliable. With the assistance of the federal government’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and coupled with Comcast’s Internet Essentials, the Internet is now free for millions of families. Teachers can help spread awareness among parents and students about the program. ACP provides a discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. The eligibility criteria are expansive. You are also eligible if your income is 200% or less than the Federal Poverty Guideline, or if a member of the household meets at least one of the following criteria. 

  • Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year 
  • Participates in Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program, including at USDA Community Eligibility Provision schools. 
  • SNAP 
  • Medicaid 
  • Federal Houston Assistance 
  • SSI

You can find a full list here. 

KPRC2 News took an up-close look at the digital divide in southeast Texas. Watch here. 👇 

Expanding Internet Adoption 

The issue of adoption may prove tricky for educators. Families need to embrace and learn digital skills to enhance children’s educational experience and expand opportunities. A recent Boston Consulting Group study, supported by Comcast, revealed a human approach is needed to shrink the digital divide. People need knowledgeable individuals to help them walk through the basics – like setting up emails, writing documents, and accessing online resources. The study found those tech experts, now known as digital navigators, are critical in reducing socioeconomic inequalities by helping more people get online. 

  • More than 65 percent of respondents said digital navigators helped them gain access to Internet service or a computer or tablet at home – among Hispanic and Black Americans, the number increased to 72 percent; 
  • More than 85 percent of respondents said that after working with digital navigators, they used the Internet more frequently; 
  • Nearly half of respondents said they were able to get better healthcare; 
  • Forty percent said they were able to get support for basic needs, including food, rent and housing; and 
  • One in three found a new job or earned a higher income after working with digital navigators. 

In a community like Houston, the non-profit SERJobs partnered with Comcast and the city to launch a digital navigators program. The program places trusted tech experts in four of Houston’s most historically under-resourced neighborhoods, allowing anyone one-on-one training free of charge. Other communities have similar programs which educators can use to supplement their efforts.

When it comes to shrinking the digital divide, it will take a holistic approach. No one knows that better than Texas teachers.  

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Feature Image with Title "April 2023 Advocacy Update- Strengthening Cybersecurity in Texas Schools"
Advocacy

Strengthening Cybersecurity in Texas Schools

by Matt Russell
written by Matt Russell

In recent years, cybersecurity threats targeting educational institutions have become increasingly common. These threats can lead to data breaches, disruptions in educational services, and significant financial losses. By implementing comprehensive cybersecurity controls and requirements, Texas can provide a secure digital environment for school districts and open-enrollment charter schools.

House and Senate Bills that TCEA Supports

As an organization devoted to the enhancement of teaching and learning through the use of technology, the Texas Computer Education Association (TCEA) is supporting Texas House Bill 4944 by House Public Education Chairman Brad Buckley and Senate Bill 717 by Senator Angela Paxton. These bills are key in ensuring the protection of our educational institutions and the sensitive information they manage daily. With the State Budget House Bill 1 already including $50 million in funding for this initiative, Texas is taking a significant step in prioritizing cybersecurity in education.

Photo of Rep. Brad Buckley, District 54
Rep. Brad Buckley, District 54
Photo of Sen. Angela Paxton, District 8
Sen. Angela Paxton, District 8

HB 4944 and SB 717 call for the Commissioner of the Texas Education Agency to adopt cybersecurity controls and requirements, in consultation with and as recommended by the Department of Information Resources. This will ensure that every school district and open-enrollment charter school in Texas implements these controls and requirements, fostering a culture of security and awareness in the state’s educational institutions.

Technical Assistance

In addition to the adoption of cybersecurity controls, these bills also emphasize the importance of technical assistance for public schools. The department may provide guidance to school districts and open-enrollment charter schools regarding the implementation of cybersecurity controls, requirements, and network operations. This technical assistance may include the use of third-party services, procurement of technology and services, recommending migration of services to the State Data Center, and using the services of a regional network security center.

Cybersecurity Risk Assessments

Furthermore, the bills provide for cybersecurity risk assessments for public schools at the request of various stakeholders, including the commissioner of the Texas Education Agency, the superintendent of the district, the person who serves the function of the superintendent of the school, or the Texas Division of Emergency Management following a cybersecurity incident. These assessments can help identify vulnerabilities and ensure that necessary measures are taken to protect our schools from future attacks.

Image to click stating "Read House Bill 4944"
Image to click stating "Read Senate Bill 717"
Image to click stating "Read House Bill 1"

TCEA believes that the integration of technology in education is vital for preparing students for the future. However, with the increasing reliance on technology comes the responsibility to protect the sensitive information of our students, educators, and educational institutions. By implementing these cybersecurity measures, Texas will not only safeguard our schools from potential threats but also foster an environment that promotes the responsible use of technology.

We thank Chairman Buckley and Senator Paxton for their ongoing efforts.

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