CISA rolls out new cybersecurity resources for K-12 schools and districts

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has released the K-12 Cybersecurity Foundations Resource Package, a collection of guides, videos, and reference materials designed to help schools and districts prevent, mitigate, and respond to cyber threats. The package translates widely used cybersecurity frameworks into cost-conscious, actionable steps tailored to the realities of K-12 systems, where sensitive data, varied user access, and limited resources often heighten risk.

“Cyberattacks on K-12 schools and districts jeopardize not only the integrity of our educational mission, but the safety and security of our students and teachers as well. These impacts are often felt well beyond the classroom,” said CISA Acting Director Nicholas Anderson. “The K‑12 Cybersecurity Foundations Resource Package empowers school communities with practical strategies and supports our school safety mission. CISA is helping the K-12 community proactively defend against cyber threats, minimize disruption and better protect the systems our nation’s children, parents and educators depend on every day.”

Developed with input from K-12 stakeholders and cybersecurity experts, the package targets both district leaders and non-technical staff as well as IT and cybersecurity professionals. It includes a Getting Started Guide, a detailed Implementation Guide, a six-part video series, and quick-reference materials to help users navigate and apply the content.

The guidance centers on eight objectives: protecting login credentials; safeguarding devices and other assets; testing backups; strengthening incident response; improving cybersecurity training; enacting policies for managing sensitive data; aligning investments with recognized cybersecurity frameworks; and building long-term, customized plans.

“K-12 cybersecurity has evolved beyond an IT department concern and must now be recognized as a fundamental pillar of school safety and security,” said CISA Acting Executive Assistant Director for Infrastructure Security Scott Breor. “The K-12 Cybersecurity Foundations Resource Package provides a roadmap for schools and districts to increase cyber awareness, evaluate current defenses and strengthen cyber resilience in the face of a growing and evolving threat landscape.”

CISA said the new materials align with its Protecting Our Future report, the Cross-Sector Cybersecurity Performance Goals, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology Cybersecurity Framework. The initiative also advances Executive Order 14239, Achieving Efficiency through State and Local Preparedness, by equipping education agencies with tools to make risk-informed decisions suited to their communities.