2026 INCTO Clinic

K–12 technology leaders are facing a perfect storm: rising cyber threats, limited staff, tight budgets, and growing expectations from school communities. This fireside chat will explore how tech directors can move beyond reactive security practices and build a culture of cyber resilience across their districts. We’ll discuss the biggest threats facing schools today, from ransomware and phishing to data privacy and third-party risk, and share practical strategies for strengthening defenses without overwhelming teams. The conversation will also cover incident response planning, staff training, student data protection, and how to communicate cyber risk effectively to superintendents, boards, and families. Designed for real-world school environments, this session will offer actionable insights, relatable examples, and leadership perspectives that help districts prioritize what matters most. Attendees will leave with fresh ideas for protecting learning, maintaining trust, and leading cybersecurity efforts with confidence in an increasingly complex educational landscape.