SPECIAL REPORT ON STUDENT-DATA PRIVACY

Intelligent and creative use of data in K-12 education is a driving force behind efforts to use digital curricula and assessments to personalize learning. Data use can be the difference maker in understanding individual students’ strengths and weaknesses. But the expanded, more sophisticated use of data has opened the doors wider for potential problems, especially regarding the privacy of student information. That rising tension between advocates for greater use of data to improve schools and people who are worried about protecting student privacy is one of the most contentious issues in education. This special report aims to give district leaders, policymakers, researchers, and education company executives a better sense of what it takes to find areas of agreement.

Schools, Government Agencies Move to Share Student Data

Amid an ongoing debate over the use of student data, K-12 systems have quietly begun linking children's educational records with information from other government agencies.

October 19, 2015 - Education Week

Educators Hope Congress Provides Clarity, Support on Privacy Issues

Eight federal bills, amendments, or provisions related to student-data privacy have been introduced in 2015.

October 19, 2015 - Education Week

Schools Learn Lessons From Security Breaches

Schools are vulnerable to outside hacking, in-house errors, and even technology gaps at companies they work with. Yet, school systems often lack specific plans for dealing with data breaches once they occur, creating logistical and public relations challenges.

October 19, 2015 - Education Week

Threat of Data-Privacy Litigation Fuels District Insurance Purchases

As more and more large, well-known companies—such as Home Depot and Target—fall victim to cyberattacks, school districts are realizing they could be next.

October 19, 2015 - Education Week

Why K-12 Data-Privacy Training Needs to Improve

Education experts are lamenting the lack of training opportunities for educators that they say must happen for true student-data-privacy protection.