The Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) is urging the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to preserve and modernize the E-Rate program, warning that reducing federal connectivity support could strain school district budgets and weaken cybersecurity protections.

The expanded competition challenges K-12 students to develop technology-based solutions to real-world problems, while a new readiness seal recognizes schools preparing students and educators to use AI responsibly.

Springfield Public Schools in Massachusetts confirmed that cybercriminals stole data involving current and former staff and students during the September cyberattack. The district continues a phased recovery that includes reimaging thousands of laptops, according to a Sept. 30 update from the district.

A Los Angeles County public schools pilot program trained 154 teachers across 84 schools and 28 districts to integrate computer science into instruction, and 95% of post-training survey respondents reported that the program’s micro:bit resources increased their confidence in teaching the subject.

The Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) released a report and companion toolkit aimed at helping K-12 school districts manage the human and organizational challenges that come with adopting new technology.

Northside Independent School District (ISD) in San Antonio, Texas, earned the Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) Trusted Learning Environment Seal for its student data privacy practices. It’s the 12th school system in Texas to receive the national recognition.

The American Federation of Teachers (AFT), United Federation of Teachers (UFT), and Microsoft announced on Sept. 9 a national standard designed to give U.S. school districts enforceable artificial intelligence (AI) safety and data privacy protections for students, families, and educators.

Salesforce announced $27 million in new education grants on Sept. 14, including $18 million for public school districts in five cities to support student career readiness, teacher development, and artificial intelligence (AI) education.

Springfield Public Schools in Massachusetts closed for a second consecutive day on Sept. 9 as officials worked to contain a severe cyber incident that disrupted systems needed for essential school operations, including access to student medical records.

The bipartisan proposal seeks to prepare students and teachers for wider AI use while keeping critical thinking at the center of the classroom.