Powercast Episode 15: The Fourth Industrial Revolution Hits Education: AI, E-Rate, and School District Security

Welcome to another episode of Powercast! Today, we’re sitting down with Keith Krueger, CEO of CoSN (Consortium for School Networking), for an essential conversation about the critical challenges and victories shaping K-12 technology today.In this episode, Keith breaks down the monumental Supreme Court decision that preserved E-Rate funding—a $9 billion program that's been the backbone of school technology infrastructure for nearly 30 years. He explains why this 6-3 ruling was crucial for maintaining connectivity in schools and libraries nationwide, and what it means for the future of educational technology funding. Keith also reveals the stark reality of cybersecurity in schools: K-12 districts are the No. 1 target for ransomware attacks, yet only one in three districts has even a single full-time security professional. He shares why schools have become "soft targets" for cybercriminals and discusses the alarming funding cuts to federal cybersecurity support programs that happened overnight in March.Tune in to hear from one of education technology's most experienced voices on how districts can protect themselves, leverage new technologies responsibly, and build sustainable systems for the future.To learn more about PowerSchool, visit: https://www.powerschool.com/Hosts: Dr. Rick Fernandez, Ryan ImbrialeGuest: Keith Krueger, CEO of Cosortium for School Networking (CoSN)