Protecting student data is a top priority for school districts. New York's Education Law §2-d, enacted during the 2014-2015 fiscal year, sets forth stringent requirements for safeguarding personally identifiable information (PII) held by schools and school districts. This law, supplemented by Part 121 in January 2020, aims to enhance data privacy and security, ensuring that student records, administrative documents, and teacher evaluations are protected.
This blog explores key components of Education Law §2-d and practical guidance for school districts to maintain compliance with it.
Key Components of Education Law §2-d
Education Law §2-d outlines several important requirements for school districts:
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PII Privacy Standards: The law mandates that schools protect PII, which includes student names, family member names, addresses, social security numbers, and other identifiers. These standards align with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
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Chief Privacy Officer's Powers: The state's chief privacy officer has the authority to enforce and validate policies, standards, technologies, and systems involved in storing or processing PII. They can also require educational agencies to conduct privacy and security risk assessments.
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Data Security Standards: The law adopts the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) Framework for Improving Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity Version 1.1. This framework provides a comprehensive approach to managing and reducing cybersecurity risks.
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Third-Party Contractor Requirements: Any third-party contractor with access to student data must encrypt the data "at rest and in motion." In the event of a data breach, the New York State Education Department (NYSED) Chief Privacy Officer can investigate and impose penalties.
Guidance from Sourcepass GOV
Sourcepass GOV offers tailored solutions to help school districts navigate the complexities of Education Law §2-d compliance. Our team of experts provides comprehensive services, including:
- Cybersecurity Risk Assessments: We evaluate the cybersecurity risks associated with your organization's IT infrastructure and provide recommendations to enhance data protection.
- Data Security and Privacy Training: Sourcepass GOV offers training programs to ensure that school employees understand how to handle PII securely and comply with Education Law §2-d requirements.
- Third-Party Risk Management: We assess the security controls of third-party vendors and provide guidance on mitigating risks associated with data sharing.
Sourcepass GOV's Commitment to Education
Sourcepass GOV has extensive experience serving the education sector. Our team understands the unique challenges faced by school districts and is dedicated to providing innovative solutions that enhance data security and compliance. We have successfully partnered with numerous educational institutions, helping them implement robust cybersecurity measures and achieve compliance with Education Law §2-d.
Our expertise extends beyond compliance. We offer a range of services designed to support the digital transformation of educational institutions, including network management, cloud security, and data analytics. By partnering with Sourcepass GOV, school districts can ensure that their data is protected, their operations are efficient, and their students' privacy is safeguarded.
Need Support for Your School District's Compliance Efforts? Sourcepass GOV Can Help!
Navigating Education Law §2-d compliance can be challenging, but with the right guidance and support, school districts can protect their students' data and meet regulatory requirements. Sourcepass GOV is here to help, offering tailored solutions and extensive experience in the education sector. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your compliance efforts and enhance your data security. Speak with an expert today.
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