Why Cybersecurity in Schools Requires a Complete Mindset Shift: Building Your Swiss Cheese Defense with Lane Young

Technology has revolutionized nearly every aspect of our lives, and education is no exception. Integrating technology in classrooms has brought about significant changes, offering new opportunities and challenges for students and educators. In this episode of Learning Through Technology, hosts Alex and Bob round up Cyber Security Awareness month by sitting down with Lane Young, Director of Strategic Operations and Technology at Phillips Brooks School. They explore the unique cybersecurity challenges faced by K-12 schools, particularly the role of human error in vulnerabilities. Lane discusses his journey from teaching to EdTech leadership, highlighting the importance of staff training, proactive measures like multi-factor authentication, and the complexities of balancing teacher autonomy with security. The conversation also touches on the evolving role of artificial intelligence in cybersecurity and the growing need for specialized knowledge in education technology.Here are the key touchpoints from the discussion:Introduction to Lane YoungLane's Journey into EdTech LeadershipHighlighting the Cybersecurity Challenges in K-12Importance of Ongoing Training while Maintaining Teacher AutonomyProactive Cybersecurity MeasuresThe Role of Specialists in CybersecurityUsing AI in CybersecurityLane’s Favorite TeacherLane Young is the Director of Strategic Operations and Technology at Phillips Brooks School, where he oversees the implementation of technology leadership and strategic initiatives. His career in EdTech began unexpectedly after transitioning from a role as a 4th-grade teacher and years of experience working in public libraries. A chance opportunity led him into educational technology, and he quickly rose to a leadership position. In his current role, Lane focuses on executing the school’s strategic plan and managing key areas like safety and security, ensuring digital and physical protection. His journey highlights his adaptability and dedication to educational advancement. We’d love to hear from you! Send us questions or comments at [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on: Apple Podcasts Spotify  YouTubeInstructions on how to do this are Here. Like what you’re hearing on the podcasts and want to dive deeper?Follow us on LinkedIn here. Cybersecurity RubricThe Cybersecurity Coalition for Education is a group of leading EdTech organizations committed to making cybersecurity preparedness and training more accessible for schools.The coalition pioneered a groundbreaking education-focused approach to measuring and improving cybersecurity readiness, the Cybersecurity Rubric (CR) for Education. Along with the rubric, the alliance provides training and certification designed to guide schools to cybersecurity readiness.Visit: https://www.cybersecurityrubric.org/A big thank you to our sponsors!FETC:Join thousands of educators at FETC 2025! Discover the latest in education technology with exclusive sessions, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities. Register by December 13 to save with Early Bird pricing. Use promo code TECHLEARN2025 to get an additional 10% off. Visit www.fetc.org to learn more!ViewSonic: ViewSonic is your go-to technology partner for engaging students, fostering collaboration, and elevating learning outcomes. ViewSonic is more than a brand- it's your educational edge- offering a broad array of future-ready audio-visual solutions, training, and tools that adapt to your school's changing needs. Explore the possibilities today at viewsonic.com/edu!Lenovo: Imagine a future where students can access tools that spark learning, growth, and creativity. At Lenovo, our K-12 solutions are designed to create a world where ed tech tools are safe and secure, engaging and easy to use, and built for productivity wherever learning occurs. Visit us at www.lenovo.com/us/en/student/!Other ResourcesLane Young on LinkedInPhillips Brooks School WebsiteThe Swiss Cheese ModelAlex Inman on LinkedInRobert Cireddu on LinkedInEducational Collaborators on LinkedInEduTech Group WebsiteSTS Education   WebsiteSTS Education Group on LinkedInWant Alex and his team’s help with your school’s cyber prevention? Check out K12 Cybersecurity AssessmentLearning Through Technology Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so