Texas Senate Bill 820 (SB 820), effective since September 2019, mandates that all Texas school districts implement comprehensive cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive information and ensure the integrity of their digital infrastructures. This legislation underscores the critical importance of safeguarding educational data from escalating cyber threats.

Key Requirements of SB 820

1. Adoption of a Cybersecurity Policy:
   School districts are required to establish a cybersecurity policy aimed at securing district cyberinfrastructure against cyber-attacks and other cybersecurity incidents. This policy must also encompass risk assessment and mitigation planning.

2. Designation of a Cybersecurity Coordinator:
   The superintendent of each district must appoint a cybersecurity coordinator to act as a liaison between the district and the Texas Education Agency (TEA) on cybersecurity matters.

3. Incident Reporting:
   The designated cybersecurity coordinator is responsible for reporting any cyber-attack or incident that constitutes a breach of system security to the TEA promptly upon discovery. Additionally, they must notify parents or guardians if the breach involves a student’s sensitive information.

Implementation Strategies for Compliance

• Align with Established Frameworks:
  Districts should develop cybersecurity policies consistent with frameworks such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework. This alignment ensures comprehensive coverage of critical security functions, including identification, protection, detection, response, and recovery.

• Conduct Regular Risk Assessments:
  Ongoing evaluations of cybersecurity risks enable districts to identify vulnerabilities and implement effective mitigation strategies, thereby enhancing their security posture.

• Provide Cybersecurity Training:
  Ensuring that employees receive certified cybersecurity training fosters a culture of security awareness and equips staff with the knowledge to adhere to best practices.

Challenges and Considerations

Implementing SB 820’s mandates may present challenges, particularly for districts with limited resources. However, leveraging available tools and resources can assist districts in developing and refining their cybersecurity policies and practices.

Conclusion

Compliance with SB 820 is essential for Texas school districts to protect sensitive data and maintain the trust of students, parents, and staff. By adopting robust cybersecurity policies, appointing dedicated coordinators, and fostering a culture of security awareness, districts can effectively mitigate cyber risks and ensure the safety of their digital environments.