Newton County Schools reports unauthorized network access, says services largely restored

Superintendent Dr. Bradley told the board that the district detected suspicious activity on July 27 and that “parts of our network had been compromised through unauthorized access.” He said the district immediately initiated internal security protocols and engaged state and federal authorities and nationally recognized cybersecurity experts to investigate and guide the response.

Dr. Bradley said district leaders set three response priorities: determine scope and impact; ensure operational continuity; and develop a communications framework for employees, families and the community. He added that, while the investigation remains ongoing, internet connectivity and most instructional and operational applications were “successfully restored within just 9 days of the initial incident and 4 days into the new school year.” The district also established a dedicated web page with updates and FAQs, the superintendent said.

The presentation emphasized balancing transparency with preserving the integrity of an active criminal investigation. "Our commitment has been to communicate what we know, acknowledge what we do not yet know, and avoid speculation while forensic experts complete their work," Dr. Bradley said. The district did not identify a threat actor by name; Dr. Bradley described the unauthorized access as likely carried out by a cybercriminal organization operating outside the United States, and said forensic work to determine the full scope and any affected information is ongoing.

Board members and staff said the district would continue sharing verified information as it becomes available. The superintendent credited internal technology staff and external partners for restoring services and asked the community to consult the district’s incident web page for the official record and updates.