Greencastle School District enhances cybersecurity strategy after near breach incident

The Greencastle-Antrim School District (GASD) Board of Directors convened on January 23, 2025, to discuss critical updates regarding cybersecurity measures and the introduction of a new director. The meeting highlighted the district's proactive steps in enhancing its cybersecurity framework following recent incidents affecting neighboring districts.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the district's response to a recent cyber threat. Laura, a board member, praised the district's decision to engage a cybersecurity monitoring company, which successfully detected and mitigated an attack on the district's network. The swift action taken by the technology team, led by Dwight Bard, involved shutting down the network to prevent unauthorized access, demonstrating the effectiveness of the district's preparedness and response plan. The board noted that the district was ahead of 90% of other school districts in terms of cybersecurity readiness, thanks to prior investments in technology and planning.

Dwight Bard presented an overview of the district's cybersecurity initiatives, emphasizing the importance of a cyber incident response plan that outlines steps to take in the event of a cyber event. He also discussed partnerships with national cybersecurity agencies that provide valuable resources and training to enhance the district's defenses.

Additionally, the meeting marked the introduction of Dr. Marchese, the new director, who faced challenges in his initial days due to weather-related school closures. Board members expressed optimism about his leadership and the collaborative relationship they hope to build.

In conclusion, the GASD Board of Directors meeting underscored the district's commitment to safeguarding its digital infrastructure and the importance of ongoing vigilance in the face of evolving cyber threats. The proactive measures taken are expected to bolster the district's resilience against future incidents, ensuring a secure learning environment for students and staff.