Focus Area

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Resources, professional learning, services, and support for helping districts protect student and mission-critical data.

Consulting, resources, and support

Securing and managing mission-critical data is not a one-person job. That’s why the Learning Technology Center provides support for implementing the latest data security protocols and complying with state and federal mandates, including SOPPA.

Our team stays at the forefront of K-12 data privacy and security innovations. Through our one-on-one consultations, events, and resources, we can put that knowledge to work for you by creating productive workflows and data management solutions for your district.

All

Cybersecurity Awareness Month Office Hours with a vCISO

Oct 13, 2026 Online Free

Building and maintaining our schools' cybersecurity is an ongoing conversation. Now's your chance to ask questions and hear fresh perspectives that bolster your cybersecurity awareness.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Be Connected: Let’s Talk Cybersecurity!

Oct 14, 2026 Online Free

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, so let's talk cybersecurity!

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Creating a Culture of Safety: Rapid Incident Response for Every Campus

Oct 21, 2026 Online

Every second matters during a school emergency. Empower your staff and improve incident response times by ensuring everyone has a fast, reliable way to call for help. Learn the safety strategies successfully employed by districts…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

[Gemini Training] Using Google AI to Consolidate your Tech Stack

Oct 21, 2026 Online

Welcome to Edu on Air: K12 edition!Join Google for Education product experts, partners and your peers every month. We'll be hosting online sessions on the latest advancements in Google for Education, including the latest with…

Artificial Intelligence

Cybersecurity Awareness Month Office Hours with a vCISO

Oct 22, 2026 Online Free

Building and maintaining our schools' cybersecurity is an ongoing conversation. Now's your chance to ask questions and hear fresh perspectives that bolster your cybersecurity awareness.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

SentinelOne + LTC Platform for Illinois Schools

Oct 27, 2026 Online Free

Learn how this partnership can empower your team to autonomously defend against the most sophisticated threats, including a a live demo of Singularity Complete.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity Awareness Month Office Hours with a vCISO

Oct 30, 2026 Online Free

Building and maintaining our schools' cybersecurity is an ongoing conversation. Now's your chance to ask questions and hear fresh perspectives that bolster your cybersecurity awareness.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

SecurED Schools

Feb 2–3, 2027 Online $75

Increased reliance on educational technology means increased risk. Prepare your institution to face that risk head during this online summit packed with cybersecurity strategies, tools, and best practices – all tailored to the unique needs…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

2027 SecurED Schools

Feb 2–3, 2027 Online $75

Increased reliance on technology to empower learning means increased risk. At SecurED Schools, you can prepare your institution to face that risk head on.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

October 6, 2026 3 min read

Student Data Privacy Laws Every District Leader Should Know

A quick guide to the federal and Illinois student data privacy laws district leaders should know, plus a brief with citations for each.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

ISBE AI Guidance Quick Hits

A two-page summary of ISBE’s July 2026 Artificial Intelligence Guidance: the four foundational tenets and four operational guardrails district leaders need to know.

Guidance · Handout/Worksheet

Cybersecurity Awareness Month Office Hours with a vCISO

Oct 6, 2026 Online Free

Building and maintaining our schools' cybersecurity is an ongoing conversation. Now's your chance to ask questions and hear fresh perspectives that bolster your cybersecurity awareness.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

October 5, 2026 10 min read

OSINT: What the World Knows About You (and your District’s Staff)

With open source intelligence, threat actors can learn a lot about school staff and use it to exploit their trust. An SMS phishing incident at my district made that clear.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

FCC Cybersecurity Pilot Program

Where the FCC's $200 million Schools and Libraries Cybersecurity Pilot Program stands in 2026, what it pays for, and what participating Illinois schools and libraries need to do now.

Funding for Technology

A guide to the federal, state, and private funding Illinois K-12 districts can use for devices, networks, software, cybersecurity, and school safety technology, with what each source covers and where it stands for 2026-27.

ServiceNew

Professional Learning for Technology Teams

Free sessions, workshops, and keynotes for K-12 technology teams, plus LTC conferences (SecurED Schools, IETC, SummIT, Hi, AI!) and year-round networking and mentoring for IT staff.

Free

Technology & the Law: What Every School Leader Must Know (AA 4230)

Sep 30, 2026 Springfield, IL $125

This course provides Illinois school and district leaders with a comprehensive and actionable understanding of the legal frameworks that govern the use of technology in K-12 education.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

SOPPA/SDPC Back-to-School Updates

Sep 23, 2026 Online Free

Data privacy didn't take the summer off. Join the LTC's Technology Services team for timely updates on SOPPA and using SDPC, including NDPA v2.3 status, Resource Registry 2.0, error reports for districts, and a platform…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Be Connected: Welcome Back!

Sep 16, 2026 Online Free

Welcome back! Now that the new school year is rolling along, let's talk about what your team worked on over the summer months.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Monthly Cyber Threat Intelligence for K-12 Schools and Districts

Awareness and action are key to keeping emerging cyber threats from landing. Each monthly report helps your district stay ahead of new exploits and understand each threat's relevance to K-12 technology environments.

September 8, 2026 10 min read

What is a vCISO? Dedicated Cybersecurity Leadership for K-12 Schools

Cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated. A vCISO offers K-12 schools the dedicated leadership and big-picture perspective needed to understand, manage, and communicate cybersecurity risk.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Service

K12Smart Phish

School-centered phishing simulations that train staff to spot real threats, turning your team into your district's frontline defense.

Paid

Be Connected: Physical Network Security

Apr 29, 2026 Online Free

A strong firewall can't do much if someone has unauthorized access to your server room or a network jack. Learn how to lock out that vulnerability by "locking and logging" IDF closets and disabling unused…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

April 22, 2026 5 min read

12 Cybersecurity Practices your District Should Already Have in Place

Resilient cybersecurity is not a set-it-and-forget-it pursuit. Re-check your district's procedures with these best practices in mind to stay on top of account management and data governance.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Be Connected: Patch Management

Apr 15, 2026 Online Free

There's a better way to patch! Let's dig into how your district can shift from reactive clicking to a structured lifecycle of testing and deploying updates across servers, workstations, and network firmware.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Managed Detection and Response with LTC & SentinelOne

Apr 10, 2026 Online Free

MDR is a proven strategy for staying ahead emerging cyber threats. See it in action with a live demo and learn how our new partnership makes this cybersecurity strategy more accessible to Illinois school districts.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

SDPC Status Report: Registry Updates, NDPA 2.3 & More

Apr 8, 2026 Online Free

Critical updates to the way Illinois school's manage student data privacy are just around the corner. Tune in to stay ahead of the curve on the forthcoming NDPA 2.3 and Registry 2.0.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Service

vCISO Service

The LTC vCISO Program provides Illinois K-12 districts with a shared, annual-subscription cybersecurity leadership service that delivers senior-level risk guidance, board-ready reporting, and structured incident readiness planning without the cost of a full-time hire.

Varies

Managed Detection and Response with LTC & SentinelOne

Apr 1, 2026 Online Free

MDR is a proven strategy for staying ahead emerging cyber threats. See it in action with a live demo and learn how our new partnership makes this cybersecurity strategy more accessible to Illinois school districts.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

March 26, 2026 5 min read

LTC Launches Cyber Incident Readiness Self-Evaluation for K-12 Schools

Pairing together a practical framework and an easy-to-use self-evaluation tool, this new national resource can help all K-12 districts move from ad-hoc response to consistent incident management.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Technology & the Law: What Every School Leader Must Know (AA#4230)

Mar 11, 2026 Des Plaines, IL $225

This Administrator Academy provides Illinois school and district leaders with a comprehensive and actionable understanding of the legal frameworks that govern the use of technology in K-12 education.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

CIRR Assessment

Assess your K-12 district's cybersecurity preparedness with a free self-evaluation. Get scores, gap analysis, and a clear roadmap in under an hour.

Service

Endpoint Security & Managed Detection

Protect your district’s devices, servers, and data with enterprise-grade endpoint security and 24/7 threat monitoring. The Learning Technology Center helps Illinois school districts detect, contain, and respond to cyber threats using advanced cybersecurity tools and…

SOC vs. The Clock!

Mar 5, 2026 Springfield, IL Free

Illinois K-12 technology directors and cybersecurity staff will be immersed in a live cybersecurity experience unlike anything you’ve seen before.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Be Connected: Penetration Testing

Mar 4, 2026 Online Free

Tune in to explore why resilient K-12 defenses require both external perimeter testing (to block outside intruders) and internal testing (to simulate what happens after a credential is lost or a device is compromised).

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

SOC vs. The Clock!

Mar 4, 2026 Wheaton, IL Free

Sophos and Twotrees, in partnership with the Regional Offices of Education and the Learning Technology Centers, invite Illinois K-12 Technology Directors and Cybersecurity staff to an immersive, live cybersecurity experience unlike anything you’ve seen before.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Be Connected: Data Backups

Feb 18, 2026 Online Free

Your data backups are supposed to provide reassurance against interruptions caused by cyber attacks. But what if their next target is…your backups?

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Be Connected: Reducing your Attack Surface

Feb 4, 2026 Online Free

If they can't hit you, you can avoid their impact. That's one big reason to reduce your district's attack surface whenever possible.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

SecurED Schools

Jan 27–28, 2026 Online $75

Join K–12 technology leaders at SecurED Schools (Jan. 27–28, 2026) for hands-on sessions with national experts and practical strategies to strengthen your district’s cybersecurity and data privacy.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Smarter Filtering, Safer AI, and Practical Security Strategies for Less

Jan 20, 2026 Online

Discover how to improve K–12 cybersecurity without increasing costs. ByteSpeed and iboss will share practical strategies for web filtering, malware prevention, classroom controls, and responsible AI use—helping districts reduce complexity and make the most of…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

SDPC Regional School District Training

Dec 10, 2025 Online Free

Join us for the A4L Regional School District Training, a focused and interactive event designed for school districts across Illinois, Tennessee, and Missouri.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

K-12 Cybersecurity on a Budget. Doing More with Less in the Age of Cuts.

Dec 1–31, 2025 Online

Note: This webinar is offered on-demand. 2025 has brought unprecedented challenges for school district technology teams working to protect student and staff data and ensure online safety. With phishing attacks and data breaches on the rise, and…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Cyber Incident Response & Recovery Framework for Schools

This framework for K-12 technology leaders and district stakeholders defines the structured lifecycle for responding to and recovering from cyber incidents within an educational environment.

Best Practices · Standards

Be Connected: Considerations for Cybersecurity Insurance Policies

Nov 5, 2025 Online Free

Join us on this week's Be Connected for a discussion on what to consider when shopping for a policy, including the essential security controls and practices that insurers now expect. We'll also offer some suggestions…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Be Connected: Hardening Active Directory – Best Practices for School IT

Oct 22, 2025 Online Free

Reinforce this backbone of school networks with best practices for minimizing your attack surface, enforcing strong policies, and implementing controls that protect against common threats.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

ClassLink CyberSession 2025

Oct 22, 2025 Online

FREE Cybersecurity Event for School Leaders Join ClassLink CyberSession | October 22, 2025 | 12—2 pm CT ✅ Learn from a district that cut cyber insurance costs using a free resource. ✅ Hear the latest…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

ManagedMethods

Contract #ILTPP-25MM02

End Date: July 31, 2027

Cybersecurity & Training

Xpel: Cybersecurity & Training

Contract #AEPA 025-F

End Date: February 28, 2027

Cybersecurity & Training

ActZero: Cybersecurity & Training

Contract #AEPA 025-F

End Date: February 28, 2027

Cybersecurity & Training

Deledao

Contract #ILTPP 025DLD01

End Date: March 31, 2027

Security Solutions

Resolute Guard

Contract #AEPA 025-F

End Date: February 28, 2027

Cybersecurity & Training

SHI: Cybersecurity & Training

Contract #AEPA 025-F

End Date: February 28, 2027

Cybersecurity & Training

Incident Response Plan Templates

Curated by the LTC's Technology Services team, 11 templates and example playbooks for developing comprehensive incident response plans based on core objectives, actions, and communications.

Resource Collections

February 13, 2025 8 min read

We Need to Act Now: 4 Takeaways from SecurED Schools 2025

January’s conference was packed with actionable cybersecurity insights. Here's what we learned from this year's conversation leaders – including K-12 tech leaders and national experts.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

February 4, 2025 8 min read

Using Reasonable Security Practices in K-12 Schools

Schools need a comprehensive framework to keep up with emerging cyber threats. This free resource includes 48 recommended controls – all vetted and aligned with globally-recognized standards.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

January 15, 2025

Cybersecurity and the Day the Internet Died

"We've been hacked. It's bad." Guest Emily Flach lived it as a K-12 tech director. Learn from her experiences + hear Eric Muckensturm's strategies for safeguarding your school against evolving…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

November 8, 2024 5 min read

Extra Student Data Privacy Support with TEC

Protecting student data and achieving SOPPA compliance requires extra effort. We’re partnering with TEC to offe access to legal and negotiation support + over 2,000 pre-negotiated vendor agreements.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

October 30, 2024 5 min read

Strengthening Student Data Privacy with CoSN’s Trusted Learning Environment Program

Starting now, Illinois school districts can get free data privacy guidance through CoSN’s Trusted Learning Environment (TLE) Seal program.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Service

Trusted Learning Environment (TLE) Seal Program

Show your commitment to student data privacy with free access to CoSN’s Trusted Learning Environment (TLE) Seal Program, empowering Illinois K-12 schools to build trust, improve data privacy practices, and demonstrate leadership through this exclusive…

Free

Service

SDPC Add-On Service

Strengthen student data privacy compliance in your district with our SDPC add-on service, providing Illinois schools expert support, streamlined NDPA processing, and vendor negotiations.

$550/year

Legislative Brief: Student Data Privacy Laws to Know

Under state and federal law, Illinois schools are legally required to keep student data secure and safe. This legislative brief provides a summary of several relevant privacy laws, including how they may impact school operations.

May 2, 2024 5 min read

How Schools Can Increase Their Chances of Winning Federal Cybersecurity Funding

The application window for the Federal Communications Commission’s $200 million cybersecurity pilot could open at any moment.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

District Website Checklist

The District Website Checklist is a component of the more extensive Legal Reference Guide published by the Learning Technology Center and is designed to assist school districts in navigating the landscape of legal obligations.

Handout/Worksheet

Service

Cybersecurity Audits & Assessments

Free district cybersecurity assessments for Illinois public school districts.

Free

CyberGuide

Strengthen your district's cybersecurity posture with this free guide for technology leaders, which includes step-by-step instructions on how to implement auditing, professional development, incident response and disaster recovery planning, and much more.

Service

Phishing Awareness Program

Free phishing campaigns to public school districts in Illinois.

Free

April 26, 2023 5 min read

Cybersecurity Crisis Response Groups: How They Can Keep your District Secure

In the event of a cyber incident, who ya gonna call? Unfortunately, the Ghostbusters can't help you here. But your friends and peers sure can. See how a cybersecurity crisis…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

October 20, 2022

4 Cybersecurity Tips for School Staff & Students

Each October, the US recognizes Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a multi-week opportunity for everyone – including K-12 school districts – to recommit themselves to protecting digital networks and data. Here are…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Sample Communications when using IL-NDPA

LTC resource for communicating with vendors about SOPPA and the IL-NDPA.

Managing Agreements with ISPA

LTC Resource sharing a workflow for the management of data privacy agreements for SOPPA.

Illinois-National Data Privacy Agreement v1.0a (IL-NDPA)

The IL-NDPA is a data privacy agreement that has been created at a national level by the Student Data Privacy Consortium and customized at a State of Illinois level by the Illinois Council of School…

National Data Privacy Agreement + Illinois Exhibit

The National Data Privacy Agreement (NDPA) streamlines application contracting and sets common expectations between schools/districts and marketplace providers. The LTC created an Illinois-specific exhibit that modifies the NDPA for use in Illinois, making it compliant…

Getting Started with SOPPA

LTC Resource sharing information about getting started with SOPPA.

Using ISPA to Comply with SOPPA

LTC Resource sharing a workflow for managing SOPPA in your District.

Service

Technology Consulting

Free IT consulting and technical assistance to district leadership and technology teams.

Free

What is SOPPA? An Introduction

This introduction summarizes SOPPA's goals, as well as the basic requirements K-12 districts will need meet to achieve compliance.

Best Practices · Standards · Video

Student Data Privacy Laws to Know

This legal brief summarizes both state and federal laws impacting how schools in Illinois collect, manage, and process student data, including FERPA, COPPA, and SOPPA.

Best Practices · Standards

Reasonable Security Practices

The Learning Technology Center recommends 48 security best practices, aligned with CIS Controls and vetted by Illinois school technology leaders, to comply with the Student Online Personal Protection Act.

Legislative Brief: Student Online Personal Protection Act (SOPPA)

This legislative brief summarizes SOPPA and provides an overview of the law's requirements for K-12 schools, including entering into written agreements with all service providers who collect student data.

Service

Student Data Privacy Consortium (SDPC)

Join SDPC to manage data privacy agreements in accordance with SOPPA.

Free

Service

Be Connected Networking Series

A bi-weekly networking series for K-12 tech teams, hosted by the LTC’s Technology Services Team.

Bi-weekly Free

Service

Education Consulting

Consulting on all tech-related teaching and learning topics.

Free

January 10, 2022 6 min read

Stay Ahead of Tomorrow’s Digital Threats at SecurED Schools

At SecurED Schools, you can take the first step toward addressing new vulnerabilities and securing your district's digital future. Take a peak at this year's schedule, which includes over 40…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

May 20, 2021 8 min read

What Teachers Need to Know about SOPPA

This summer, Illinois' new SOPPA amendments will come into force, requiring districts to meet new standards for managing and protecting student data. But what role will teachers play in this…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

January 28, 2021 8 min read

Data Privacy Resources for 2021 and Beyond

In recognition of Data Privacy Day, the LTC team has gathered some of our most popular data privacy and cybersecurity resources into one place. Check out each of these overviews,…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

January 26, 2021 8 min read

A Big Year Ahead – Takeaways from SecurED Schools 2021

The 4th annual SecurED Schools conference concluded back on Thursday, January 14. Though this year’s gathering was held virtually, technology leaders from around Illinois still participated in plenty of insightful…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

October 9, 2020 5 min read

Achieving SOPPA Compliance with Reasonable Security Practices

The Learning Technology Center selected 43 security best practices that all districts should implement to comply with new SOPPA legislation.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

November 19, 2019 5 min read

Do You Understand the Legal Implications of Using Technology in Schools?

On October 30, 2019, more than 100 administrators, school personnel and educators came together at the DuPage Regional Office of Education to discuss the Legal Implications of Using Technology in…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

October 4, 2019 5 min read

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month

It is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. This year the theme is "Own IT. Secure IT. Protect IT.” Learn 5 ways we can all take collective responsibility and protect ourselves.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

September 23, 2019 5 min read

Checking the Checkboxes: NIST Cybersecurity Framework

Checklists are widely recognized as important tools for many professions, including K-12 cybersecurity.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

May 29, 2019 3 min read

Tech Check: Get Your Digital Life Organized

Get ready for summer, by checking in on your digital life!

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

January 23, 2019 5 min read

Data and Security Summit

The Learning Technology Center hosted their second annual Data and Security Summit on January 16 in Tinley Park and January 17 in Effingham. Over 190 people came together to learn…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

December 3, 2018 3 min read

Illinois Student Privacy Alliance

The Learning Technology Center (LTC) formed the Illinois Student Privacy Alliance (ISPA). The ISPA is a collaboration of Illinois school districts that share common concerns around student privacy. The goal…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Services

ServiceNew

Professional Learning for Technology Teams

Free sessions, workshops, and keynotes for K-12 technology teams, plus LTC conferences (SecurED Schools, IETC, SummIT, Hi, AI!) and year-round networking and mentoring for IT staff.

Free

Service

K12Smart Phish

School-centered phishing simulations that train staff to spot real threats, turning your team into your district's frontline defense.

Paid

Service

vCISO Service

The LTC vCISO Program provides Illinois K-12 districts with a shared, annual-subscription cybersecurity leadership service that delivers senior-level risk guidance, board-ready reporting, and structured incident readiness planning without the cost of a full-time hire.

Varies

Service

Endpoint Security & Managed Detection

Protect your district’s devices, servers, and data with enterprise-grade endpoint security and 24/7 threat monitoring. The Learning Technology Center helps Illinois school districts detect, contain, and respond to cyber threats using advanced cybersecurity tools and…

Service

Trusted Learning Environment (TLE) Seal Program

Show your commitment to student data privacy with free access to CoSN’s Trusted Learning Environment (TLE) Seal Program, empowering Illinois K-12 schools to build trust, improve data privacy practices, and demonstrate leadership through this exclusive…

Free

Service

SDPC Add-On Service

Strengthen student data privacy compliance in your district with our SDPC add-on service, providing Illinois schools expert support, streamlined NDPA processing, and vendor negotiations.

$550/year

Service

Cybersecurity Audits & Assessments

Free district cybersecurity assessments for Illinois public school districts.

Free

Service

Phishing Awareness Program

Free phishing campaigns to public school districts in Illinois.

Free

Service

Technology Consulting

Free IT consulting and technical assistance to district leadership and technology teams.

Free

Service

Student Data Privacy Consortium (SDPC)

Join SDPC to manage data privacy agreements in accordance with SOPPA.

Free

Service

Be Connected Networking Series

A bi-weekly networking series for K-12 tech teams, hosted by the LTC’s Technology Services Team.

Bi-weekly Free

Service

Education Consulting

Consulting on all tech-related teaching and learning topics.

Free

Resources

ISBE AI Guidance Quick Hits

A two-page summary of ISBE’s July 2026 Artificial Intelligence Guidance: the four foundational tenets and four operational guardrails district leaders need to know.

Guidance · Handout/Worksheet

FCC Cybersecurity Pilot Program

Where the FCC's $200 million Schools and Libraries Cybersecurity Pilot Program stands in 2026, what it pays for, and what participating Illinois schools and libraries need to do now.

Funding for Technology

A guide to the federal, state, and private funding Illinois K-12 districts can use for devices, networks, software, cybersecurity, and school safety technology, with what each source covers and where it stands for 2026-27.

Monthly Cyber Threat Intelligence for K-12 Schools and Districts

Awareness and action are key to keeping emerging cyber threats from landing. Each monthly report helps your district stay ahead of new exploits and understand each threat's relevance to K-12 technology environments.

CIRR Assessment

Assess your K-12 district's cybersecurity preparedness with a free self-evaluation. Get scores, gap analysis, and a clear roadmap in under an hour.

Cyber Incident Response & Recovery Framework for Schools

This framework for K-12 technology leaders and district stakeholders defines the structured lifecycle for responding to and recovering from cyber incidents within an educational environment.

Best Practices · Standards

Incident Response Plan Templates

Curated by the LTC's Technology Services team, 11 templates and example playbooks for developing comprehensive incident response plans based on core objectives, actions, and communications.

Resource Collections

Legislative Brief: Student Data Privacy Laws to Know

Under state and federal law, Illinois schools are legally required to keep student data secure and safe. This legislative brief provides a summary of several relevant privacy laws, including how they may impact school operations.

District Website Checklist

The District Website Checklist is a component of the more extensive Legal Reference Guide published by the Learning Technology Center and is designed to assist school districts in navigating the landscape of legal obligations.

Handout/Worksheet

CyberGuide

Strengthen your district's cybersecurity posture with this free guide for technology leaders, which includes step-by-step instructions on how to implement auditing, professional development, incident response and disaster recovery planning, and much more.

Sample Communications when using IL-NDPA

LTC resource for communicating with vendors about SOPPA and the IL-NDPA.

Managing Agreements with ISPA

LTC Resource sharing a workflow for the management of data privacy agreements for SOPPA.

Illinois-National Data Privacy Agreement v1.0a (IL-NDPA)

The IL-NDPA is a data privacy agreement that has been created at a national level by the Student Data Privacy Consortium and customized at a State of Illinois level by the Illinois Council of School…

National Data Privacy Agreement + Illinois Exhibit

The National Data Privacy Agreement (NDPA) streamlines application contracting and sets common expectations between schools/districts and marketplace providers. The LTC created an Illinois-specific exhibit that modifies the NDPA for use in Illinois, making it compliant…

Getting Started with SOPPA

LTC Resource sharing information about getting started with SOPPA.

Using ISPA to Comply with SOPPA

LTC Resource sharing a workflow for managing SOPPA in your District.

What is SOPPA? An Introduction

This introduction summarizes SOPPA's goals, as well as the basic requirements K-12 districts will need meet to achieve compliance.

Best Practices · Standards · Video

Student Data Privacy Laws to Know

This legal brief summarizes both state and federal laws impacting how schools in Illinois collect, manage, and process student data, including FERPA, COPPA, and SOPPA.

Best Practices · Standards

Reasonable Security Practices

The Learning Technology Center recommends 48 security best practices, aligned with CIS Controls and vetted by Illinois school technology leaders, to comply with the Student Online Personal Protection Act.

Legislative Brief: Student Online Personal Protection Act (SOPPA)

This legislative brief summarizes SOPPA and provides an overview of the law's requirements for K-12 schools, including entering into written agreements with all service providers who collect student data.

Events

Be Connected: Let’s Talk Cybersecurity!

Oct 14, 2026 Online Free

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, so let's talk cybersecurity!

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

2027 SecurED Schools

Feb 2–3, 2027 Online $75

Increased reliance on technology to empower learning means increased risk. At SecurED Schools, you can prepare your institution to face that risk head on.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Creating a Culture of Safety: Rapid Incident Response for Every Campus

Oct 21, 2026 Online

Every second matters during a school emergency. Empower your staff and improve incident response times by ensuring everyone has a fast, reliable way to call for help. Learn the safety strategies successfully employed by districts…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity Awareness Month Office Hours with a vCISO

Oct 30, 2026 Online Free

Building and maintaining our schools' cybersecurity is an ongoing conversation. Now's your chance to ask questions and hear fresh perspectives that bolster your cybersecurity awareness.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity Awareness Month Office Hours with a vCISO

Oct 22, 2026 Online Free

Building and maintaining our schools' cybersecurity is an ongoing conversation. Now's your chance to ask questions and hear fresh perspectives that bolster your cybersecurity awareness.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity Awareness Month Office Hours with a vCISO

Oct 6, 2026 Online Free

Building and maintaining our schools' cybersecurity is an ongoing conversation. Now's your chance to ask questions and hear fresh perspectives that bolster your cybersecurity awareness.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity Awareness Month Office Hours with a vCISO

Oct 13, 2026 Online Free

Building and maintaining our schools' cybersecurity is an ongoing conversation. Now's your chance to ask questions and hear fresh perspectives that bolster your cybersecurity awareness.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

SentinelOne + LTC Platform for Illinois Schools

Oct 27, 2026 Online Free

Learn how this partnership can empower your team to autonomously defend against the most sophisticated threats, including a a live demo of Singularity Complete.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Be Connected: Welcome Back!

Sep 16, 2026 Online Free

Welcome back! Now that the new school year is rolling along, let's talk about what your team worked on over the summer months.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

[Gemini Training] Using Google AI to Consolidate your Tech Stack

Oct 21, 2026 Online

Welcome to Edu on Air: K12 edition!Join Google for Education product experts, partners and your peers every month. We'll be hosting online sessions on the latest advancements in Google for Education, including the latest with…

Artificial Intelligence

SOPPA/SDPC Back-to-School Updates

Sep 23, 2026 Online Free

Data privacy didn't take the summer off. Join the LTC's Technology Services team for timely updates on SOPPA and using SDPC, including NDPA v2.3 status, Resource Registry 2.0, error reports for districts, and a platform…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

SecurED Schools

Feb 2–3, 2027 Online $75

Increased reliance on educational technology means increased risk. Prepare your institution to face that risk head during this online summit packed with cybersecurity strategies, tools, and best practices – all tailored to the unique needs…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Technology & the Law: What Every School Leader Must Know (AA 4230)

Sep 30, 2026 Springfield, IL $125

This course provides Illinois school and district leaders with a comprehensive and actionable understanding of the legal frameworks that govern the use of technology in K-12 education.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

SDPC Status Report: Registry Updates, NDPA 2.3 & More

Apr 8, 2026 Online Free

Critical updates to the way Illinois school's manage student data privacy are just around the corner. Tune in to stay ahead of the curve on the forthcoming NDPA 2.3 and Registry 2.0.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Managed Detection and Response with LTC & SentinelOne

Apr 10, 2026 Online Free

MDR is a proven strategy for staying ahead emerging cyber threats. See it in action with a live demo and learn how our new partnership makes this cybersecurity strategy more accessible to Illinois school districts.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Managed Detection and Response with LTC & SentinelOne

Apr 1, 2026 Online Free

MDR is a proven strategy for staying ahead emerging cyber threats. See it in action with a live demo and learn how our new partnership makes this cybersecurity strategy more accessible to Illinois school districts.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Technology & the Law: What Every School Leader Must Know (AA#4230)

Mar 11, 2026 Des Plaines, IL $225

This Administrator Academy provides Illinois school and district leaders with a comprehensive and actionable understanding of the legal frameworks that govern the use of technology in K-12 education.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

SOC vs. The Clock!

Mar 5, 2026 Springfield, IL Free

Illinois K-12 technology directors and cybersecurity staff will be immersed in a live cybersecurity experience unlike anything you’ve seen before.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

SOC vs. The Clock!

Mar 4, 2026 Wheaton, IL Free

Sophos and Twotrees, in partnership with the Regional Offices of Education and the Learning Technology Centers, invite Illinois K-12 Technology Directors and Cybersecurity staff to an immersive, live cybersecurity experience unlike anything you’ve seen before.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Be Connected: Physical Network Security

Apr 29, 2026 Online Free

A strong firewall can't do much if someone has unauthorized access to your server room or a network jack. Learn how to lock out that vulnerability by "locking and logging" IDF closets and disabling unused…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Be Connected: Patch Management

Apr 15, 2026 Online Free

There's a better way to patch! Let's dig into how your district can shift from reactive clicking to a structured lifecycle of testing and deploying updates across servers, workstations, and network firmware.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Be Connected: Penetration Testing

Mar 4, 2026 Online Free

Tune in to explore why resilient K-12 defenses require both external perimeter testing (to block outside intruders) and internal testing (to simulate what happens after a credential is lost or a device is compromised).

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Be Connected: Data Backups

Feb 18, 2026 Online Free

Your data backups are supposed to provide reassurance against interruptions caused by cyber attacks. But what if their next target is…your backups?

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Be Connected: Reducing your Attack Surface

Feb 4, 2026 Online Free

If they can't hit you, you can avoid their impact. That's one big reason to reduce your district's attack surface whenever possible.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Smarter Filtering, Safer AI, and Practical Security Strategies for Less

Jan 20, 2026 Online

Discover how to improve K–12 cybersecurity without increasing costs. ByteSpeed and iboss will share practical strategies for web filtering, malware prevention, classroom controls, and responsible AI use—helping districts reduce complexity and make the most of…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

K-12 Cybersecurity on a Budget. Doing More with Less in the Age of Cuts.

Dec 1–31, 2025 Online

Note: This webinar is offered on-demand. 2025 has brought unprecedented challenges for school district technology teams working to protect student and staff data and ensure online safety. With phishing attacks and data breaches on the rise, and…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

SDPC Regional School District Training

Dec 10, 2025 Online Free

Join us for the A4L Regional School District Training, a focused and interactive event designed for school districts across Illinois, Tennessee, and Missouri.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

SecurED Schools

Jan 27–28, 2026 Online $75

Join K–12 technology leaders at SecurED Schools (Jan. 27–28, 2026) for hands-on sessions with national experts and practical strategies to strengthen your district’s cybersecurity and data privacy.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Be Connected: Considerations for Cybersecurity Insurance Policies

Nov 5, 2025 Online Free

Join us on this week's Be Connected for a discussion on what to consider when shopping for a policy, including the essential security controls and practices that insurers now expect. We'll also offer some suggestions…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Be Connected: Hardening Active Directory – Best Practices for School IT

Oct 22, 2025 Online Free

Reinforce this backbone of school networks with best practices for minimizing your attack surface, enforcing strong policies, and implementing controls that protect against common threats.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

ClassLink CyberSession 2025

Oct 22, 2025 Online

FREE Cybersecurity Event for School Leaders Join ClassLink CyberSession | October 22, 2025 | 12—2 pm CT ✅ Learn from a district that cut cyber insurance costs using a free resource. ✅ Hear the latest…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Articles

October 6, 2026 3 min read

Student Data Privacy Laws Every District Leader Should Know

A quick guide to the federal and Illinois student data privacy laws district leaders should know, plus a brief with citations for each.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

October 5, 2026 10 min read

OSINT: What the World Knows About You (and your District’s Staff)

With open source intelligence, threat actors can learn a lot about school staff and use it to exploit their trust. An SMS phishing incident at my district made that clear.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

September 8, 2026 10 min read

What is a vCISO? Dedicated Cybersecurity Leadership for K-12 Schools

Cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated. A vCISO offers K-12 schools the dedicated leadership and big-picture perspective needed to understand, manage, and communicate cybersecurity risk.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

April 22, 2026 5 min read

12 Cybersecurity Practices your District Should Already Have in Place

Resilient cybersecurity is not a set-it-and-forget-it pursuit. Re-check your district's procedures with these best practices in mind to stay on top of account management and data governance.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

March 26, 2026 5 min read

LTC Launches Cyber Incident Readiness Self-Evaluation for K-12 Schools

Pairing together a practical framework and an easy-to-use self-evaluation tool, this new national resource can help all K-12 districts move from ad-hoc response to consistent incident management.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

February 13, 2025 8 min read

We Need to Act Now: 4 Takeaways from SecurED Schools 2025

January’s conference was packed with actionable cybersecurity insights. Here's what we learned from this year's conversation leaders – including K-12 tech leaders and national experts.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

February 4, 2025 8 min read

Using Reasonable Security Practices in K-12 Schools

Schools need a comprehensive framework to keep up with emerging cyber threats. This free resource includes 48 recommended controls – all vetted and aligned with globally-recognized standards.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

January 15, 2025

Cybersecurity and the Day the Internet Died

"We've been hacked. It's bad." Guest Emily Flach lived it as a K-12 tech director. Learn from her experiences + hear Eric Muckensturm's strategies for safeguarding your school against evolving…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

November 8, 2024 5 min read

Extra Student Data Privacy Support with TEC

Protecting student data and achieving SOPPA compliance requires extra effort. We’re partnering with TEC to offe access to legal and negotiation support + over 2,000 pre-negotiated vendor agreements.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

October 30, 2024 5 min read

Strengthening Student Data Privacy with CoSN’s Trusted Learning Environment Program

Starting now, Illinois school districts can get free data privacy guidance through CoSN’s Trusted Learning Environment (TLE) Seal program.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

May 2, 2024 5 min read

How Schools Can Increase Their Chances of Winning Federal Cybersecurity Funding

The application window for the Federal Communications Commission’s $200 million cybersecurity pilot could open at any moment.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

April 26, 2023 5 min read

Cybersecurity Crisis Response Groups: How They Can Keep your District Secure

In the event of a cyber incident, who ya gonna call? Unfortunately, the Ghostbusters can't help you here. But your friends and peers sure can. See how a cybersecurity crisis…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

October 20, 2022

4 Cybersecurity Tips for School Staff & Students

Each October, the US recognizes Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a multi-week opportunity for everyone – including K-12 school districts – to recommit themselves to protecting digital networks and data. Here are…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

January 10, 2022 6 min read

Stay Ahead of Tomorrow’s Digital Threats at SecurED Schools

At SecurED Schools, you can take the first step toward addressing new vulnerabilities and securing your district's digital future. Take a peak at this year's schedule, which includes over 40…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

May 20, 2021 8 min read

What Teachers Need to Know about SOPPA

This summer, Illinois' new SOPPA amendments will come into force, requiring districts to meet new standards for managing and protecting student data. But what role will teachers play in this…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

January 28, 2021 8 min read

Data Privacy Resources for 2021 and Beyond

In recognition of Data Privacy Day, the LTC team has gathered some of our most popular data privacy and cybersecurity resources into one place. Check out each of these overviews,…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

January 26, 2021 8 min read

A Big Year Ahead – Takeaways from SecurED Schools 2021

The 4th annual SecurED Schools conference concluded back on Thursday, January 14. Though this year’s gathering was held virtually, technology leaders from around Illinois still participated in plenty of insightful…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

October 9, 2020 5 min read

Achieving SOPPA Compliance with Reasonable Security Practices

The Learning Technology Center selected 43 security best practices that all districts should implement to comply with new SOPPA legislation.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

November 19, 2019 5 min read

Do You Understand the Legal Implications of Using Technology in Schools?

On October 30, 2019, more than 100 administrators, school personnel and educators came together at the DuPage Regional Office of Education to discuss the Legal Implications of Using Technology in…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

October 4, 2019 5 min read

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month

It is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. This year the theme is "Own IT. Secure IT. Protect IT.” Learn 5 ways we can all take collective responsibility and protect ourselves.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

September 23, 2019 5 min read

Checking the Checkboxes: NIST Cybersecurity Framework

Checklists are widely recognized as important tools for many professions, including K-12 cybersecurity.

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

May 29, 2019 3 min read

Tech Check: Get Your Digital Life Organized

Get ready for summer, by checking in on your digital life!

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

January 23, 2019 5 min read

Data and Security Summit

The Learning Technology Center hosted their second annual Data and Security Summit on January 16 in Tinley Park and January 17 in Effingham. Over 190 people came together to learn…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

December 3, 2018 3 min read

Illinois Student Privacy Alliance

The Learning Technology Center (LTC) formed the Illinois Student Privacy Alliance (ISPA). The ISPA is a collaboration of Illinois school districts that share common concerns around student privacy. The goal…

Data Privacy & Cybersecurity

Purchasing Contracts

Contracts are facilitated through the LTC Purchasing Program, which leverages the collective buying power of Illinois K-12 schools to secure competitive pricing on technology and digital learning resources.

ManagedMethods

Contract #ILTPP-25MM02

End Date: July 31, 2027

Cybersecurity & Training

Xpel: Cybersecurity & Training

Contract #AEPA 025-F

End Date: February 28, 2027

Cybersecurity & Training

ActZero: Cybersecurity & Training

Contract #AEPA 025-F

End Date: February 28, 2027

Cybersecurity & Training

Deledao

Contract #ILTPP 025DLD01

End Date: March 31, 2027

Security Solutions

Resolute Guard

Contract #AEPA 025-F

End Date: February 28, 2027

Cybersecurity & Training

SHI: Cybersecurity & Training

Contract #AEPA 025-F

End Date: February 28, 2027

Cybersecurity & Training