Start off Secure!

Most educators don't have time to think about cybersecurity. Between managing classrooms, meeting learning objectives, and handling so much more, it's rarely a top priority. However, as technology becomes more integrated into every aspect of our lives, from mental health to biometrics, and cybercrime increasingly targets schools, cybersecurity is something we all need to be mindful of and help our students understand.

1. Check with what is approved and legal to use.

As an Illinois teacher, I must be familiar with federal laws like FERPA and COPPA, but also our Illinois's own Student Online Personal Protection Act (SOPPA). SOPPA specifically regulates how districts and approved vendors collect and use student data, requiring formal agreements to protect student privacy. This means teachers must only use school-approved ed-tech tools to ensure compliance and keep student information secure.

Unsure on what your approved tools are? Check with your technology department or on your school website, as all information needs to be forward-facing for parents.

🥨Freeport SD 145 educators can submit new requests and see what is approved on LearnPlatform!

2. Be selective with personal information.

When working with K–12 students, it's crucial to teach them the importance of digital privacy. A core lesson is to advise students not to share personal information—such as their full name, home address, phone number, or birthday—with strangers online. Additionally, remind them to be thoughtful before posting any photos, videos, or other personal information. Same thing for us, even if it is tempting to get a free Bloomin' Onion from Outback Steakhouse.

3. Be cautious with links and downloads.

Never click on suspicious links or open attachments from people you don't know. Routine 'duh' moment, but the horrors persist. This is one of the leading causes of cybersecurity intrusions for K-12 school districts.

Usually, the sniff test is good. If it looks off, don't click it or believe you're getting a free $20 Starbucks gift card from a rando.

This isn't as big of a problem in schools, but it's definitely something to
keep an eye out for in your personal life!

TED Games is a home for the curious, a place that opens your eyes and expands your mind with exploration and discovery.A good game has the power to shift perspectives, connect people and prompt pure, unapologetic delight. It’s your turn to play.

My two favorites (only three released so far) are below! They make great "finished early" options for students to keep their minds active and to expose them to new concepts in a safe, trusted place!

The Purring Test (TED)

The Purring Test is a puzzle that challenges you to guess the answer from a series of clues, including history, culture, and an image generated by an AI that "thinks" it is a cat.

Letter Brew (TED)

The Letter Brew has three options of words, and you must change one letter of the word to make another based on the given definition to make one final "brew". Use the hints in the top right if you get stuck!

More TED Games!