Growing Awareness, Practical Action: The K-12 Leadership & Cybersecurity Framework
There’s a growing awareness among school and district leaders that cybersecurity isn’t just an IT issue. It’s a leadership issue. Every part of school operations now depends on technology, and when that technology is disrupted, so is learning.
The K-12 Leadership & Cybersecurity Framework is an educator-led effort, built with input from IT and technology leaders from a wide range of districts. It focuses on what schools can actually do right now to strengthen security, protect learning, and build confidence across their communities.
What Makes This Framework Different
This framework was created for educators, not auditors. It’s practical, vendor-neutral, and centered on leadership capacity. Each section outlines a clear goal, a realistic place to start, and the next steps as your team grows stronger. “Voices from the Field” sections highlight real experiences from district leaders who have improved their resilience through teamwork and focus.
Why This Matters Now
Cyber incidents affect more than servers and networks. They interrupt teaching, payroll, transportation, and trust. The framework helps leadership teams align people, policy, and technology around a shared plan that keeps learning safe. It gives superintendents and boards a clear way to see progress and support their teams.
What’s Inside
A quick self-assessment that helps you understand your current state. Templates and checklists that can be adapted for any district. Talking points for board and cabinet conversations. Every part of this framework was shaped by real K-12 leaders who are already putting these ideas into practice.
Join the Community
The K-12 Cybersecurity Working Group continues this conversation. Members share examples, templates, and lessons learned from districts across the country. Participation is free for K-12 staff and leaders who want to strengthen their systems and learn from peers.
Download the Framework
Join the Working Group
This framework reflects the growing leadership role of educators in building safe, resilient, and trusted digital environments for students and staff. It also reflects what K12Leaders was built for: bringing educators together to share ideas, strengthen systems, and lead positive change across schools and districts.
🔗 Related Resources
NetAlly empowers education system IT leaders and technologists to protect students, staff, and data while keeping classrooms connected and learning uninterrupted. Because when the network works, the lesson plan works.
The Cybersecurity Rubric (CR) for Education is a powerful self-assessment tool that helps education leaders evaluate their current practices. Based on the Cybersecurity Framework for Education, the CR helps schools gain a clear understanding of their strengths and weaknesses, enabling them to improve their defenses and safeguard against threats.
