A significant data breach affecting the PowerSchool student information system has raised alarms across Pittsfield and beyond. During the Pittsfield School Committee meeting on January 8, 2025, officials revealed that the breach impacted all 18,000 PowerSchool customers globally, including local schools.

The breach was traced back to a compromised employee account, allowing hackers to access sensitive data, including home addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses of students and teachers. Fortunately, passwords were not compromised. The technology department acted swiftly upon receiving the news, beginning an immediate investigation into the breach's impact.

PowerSchool has committed to providing credit monitoring and identity protection services for affected minors, adhering to regulatory requirements. The district has already issued two information releases to families and staff, ensuring transparency during this troubling time.

With PowerSchool being a dominant player in student information systems for over 22 years, the lack of alternatives complicates the situation. As the district continues to gather information, officials promise to keep the community updated on any developments regarding the breach and its implications.