SPOTLIGHT SPEAKER: Beyond the Firewall: Leading Cybersecurity in an AI-Driven World (Grades K-12)

In today’s schools, cybersecurity is not just about tools, it’s about leadership. As AI reshapes the threat landscape, district leaders – ALL leaders must navigate a new era of risk that includes intelligent phishing, automated attacks, deepfakes, and growing data privacy concerns. This session explores the most significant cybersecurity threats facing K-12 education and examines how artificial intelligence is changing both the nature of attacks and the strategies needed to defend against them. Grounded in real district experiences and aligned to national frameworks, this conversation equips leaders with practical approaches to governance, risk management, and building a culture of shared responsibility. Participants will leave with actionable strategies, free cybersecurity tools, and curated resources that can be implemented immediately to strengthen district defenses, support compliance, and enhance resilience, regardless of budget. Walk away ready to move cybersecurity from a technical function to a strategic priority.