Board Resolution Proclaims October 2025 as Cybersecurity Awareness Month

San Diego County Board of Education proclaims October 2025 as Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Resolution No. 2025-26 reads:

WHEREAS, K-12 school districts and charter schools across the country are experiencing an increase in cyber incidents, making cybersecurity risk management essential as school communities rely heavily on technology and internet connectivity to carry out teaching, learning, and day-to-day operations; and

WHEREAS, the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE), in collaboration with its supported local educational agencies (LEAs), has provided essential cybersecurity services, implemented threat-detection systems, enhanced education and awareness, and implemented policies and guidance promoting internet safety and responsible use of technology for students and staff; and

WHEREAS, all students and staff in San Diego County schools are encouraged to practice responsible online behavior and to report any suspected security breaches or suspicious cyber activity to their administrators, recognizing that timely reporting is essential to mitigate risks and protect school communities; and

WHEREAS, raising cybersecurity awareness among educators, students, and families is critical to fostering a culture of digital safety and citizenship in our region, as informed vigilance and basic cyber hygiene by all stakeholders significantly reduces the likelihood of successful cyberattacks on school networks; and

WHEREAS, October is recognized nationally as Cybersecurity Awareness Month, led by the National Cybersecurity Alliance and supported by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), offering tools and educational campaigns that help communities stay safe online; and

WHEREAS, the 2025 Cybersecurity Awareness Month theme, Stay Safe Online, emphasizes cybersecurity training and highlights the importance of information sharing and collaboration for the protection of information and digital safety, and how small actions can make a big difference, with four core focus areas: Use strong passwords and a password manager; Turn on multifactor authentication; Recognize and report scams; Update your software regularly; and

WHEREAS, Cybersecurity Awareness Month serves as an important reminder that even amidst large-scale data breaches and complex cyber threats, there are simple, effective ways for individuals to protect personal data and help secure our schools and communities.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the San Diego County Board of Education and county superintendent of schools do hereby adopt this resolution to proclaim October 2025.