At GDRSD, we prioritize cybersecurity and data protection to ensure the safety and security of our staff and students. We employ a multi-layered approach, using various tools and strategies to create a secure digital environment.
Email Security with Abnormal Security
We utilize advanced technology to detect and block malicious emails, including phishing attacks and social engineering threats. Funded by a grant in FY2024, and later picked up in the budget, Abnormal Security uses machine learning to adapt to emerging risks, ensuring our Google Workspace for Education email systems are protected against sophisticated attacks.
Advanced Threat Detection with Sophos XDR
We always aim to implement advanced threat detection and response systems that allow us to identify and investigate potential security risks quickly. This helps our team act swiftly to resolve any issues, ensuring the ongoing security of our network and devices.
Safe Online Activity with Cloud & Device-Based Filtering
Our hybrid filtering system ensures GD students and staff have a safe digital learning environment. It provides comprehensive protection across cloud and on-premise systems, with strict privacy standards and easy-to-understand visualizations of online activity.
Why This Matters?
Our commitment to cybersecurity and data security is centered around protecting instructional time, maintaining data privacy, and providing a safe space for learning and collaboration. These measures and other strategies not mentioned here work together to preserve our online and offline community.
Shoutout to Network Administrator: Gary Babin
We’d like to recognize Gary Babin, our Network Administrator, for his outstanding efforts in keeping our servers, switches, and network infrastructure updated and securely patched. His dedication ensures the reliability and security of our systems.
Other Ways to Mitigate Cybersecurity Risks
In addition to our existing measures, there are simple, cost-effective steps that GDRSD takes to protect our students and staff further:
Keeping software up to date (Patching): Regular updates are critical to addressing vulnerabilities and enhancing security.
Implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Adding an extra layer of security to sensitive accounts.
Using Strong Passwords: Encouraging secure password practices to reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
We also continue to explore additional products and practices, including the possibility of integrating new solutions for the upcoming FY2026 school year, to strengthen our cybersecurity efforts further! One area is to continue with deeper integration of the Student Data Privacy Consortium (SDPC), a collaboration of schools, districts, state agencies, policymakers, trade organizations, and marketplace providers working on real-world, adaptable solutions to growing data privacy concerns.
For more information on the K-12 cybersecurity best practices we follow, visit the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) here.