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Echo SD 5 adopts cybersecurity policy amid rising insurance and threat concerns
Summary
The board approved policy EHB and regulation EHB-AR on cybersecurity in response to legislative action and growing ransomware risk; the superintendent noted tabletop exercises, ESD tech support, and that PACE insurance may cover ransom costs.
Board member (Speaker 7) moved and the board approved the implementation of policy EHB and regulation EHB-AR addressing cybersecurity. The superintendent said the policy responds to legislative action requiring district cybersecurity plans and explained the district has participated in tabletop exercises and training with the regional ESD technology team.
The superintendent warned of ransomware risks and that insurance (PACE) may cover ransom payments depending on coverage and compliance with required protocols; she said, "If we didn't get this in place, then they could say, 'oh, well, you didn't have the policy in place and you weren't following the protocols.'" The superintendent also described technical protections (backups via cloud providers such as Synergy for student data and LBL for financials) and noted phishing exercises and staff training will expand.
The board approved the policy on a recorded motion; the district will continue cybersecurity tabletop drills and coordinate with the ESD for technical support and training.
