The Los Angeles County Office of Education’s recent CTO Tech Talk brought together technology leaders, educators, and legal experts for a thought-provoking discussion on how schools can protect themselves against cybersecurity threats, navigate the legal implications of artificial intelligence (AI), and harness the power of AI in education.

The opening session focused on the ever-present threat of cyberattacks on educational institutions. Robert Dotson, LACOE’s Information Systems Security Officer, spoke about the importance of a multi-layered approach to cybersecurity, emphasizing the need for proactive threat detection, employee training, and robust data protection measures.

Gretchen Shipley, a legal expert in education law and technology from F3 law firm, outlined the challenges and opportunities AI presents for schools. She spoke of data privacy and compliance with relevant regulations, such as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) in the United States. As AI systems collect and process vast amounts of student data, schools must ensure they are following data protection laws to safeguard the privacy of their students.

The event concluded with a panel discussion on the role of AI in education and how AI can enhance the learning experience. The panelist emphasized how crucial it is for schools to be aware of and address bias in AI systems to ensure fairness and equal access to education for all students. 

They also talked about the importance of adopting AI standards around the technology’s use. Last week, the Los Angeles County Board of Education and the Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools approved a Joint Board Resolution to develop comprehensive guidelines and procedures regarding the evaluation, piloting, procurement and use of AI technologies.

As technology continues to reshape the way we teach and learn, educational institutions must stay ahead of the curve by embracing innovation while remaining vigilant against cybersecurity threats and legal pitfalls. With a shared commitment to innovation, equity, and responsible AI usage, schools can leverage technology to provide a brighter future for all learners.