CoSN today launched a new project to help school system technology leaders take advantage of cloud computing in modern learning settings. The project, called SEND: Cloud, comes at a time when cloud computing is a rising trend in education technology worldwide.
Over the course of the next year, CoSN and education technology experts will build tools and resources that will deliver to school leaders the insights and practical guidance regarding cloud computing. The new project is made possible through the support of lead sponsors Amazon Web Services, ENA, and Google for Education, and the additional support of AT&T, Brocade, Cisco, FileWave, Juniper Networks, Microsoft and Sunesys.
“Increasingly, school systems are moving their data to the cloud to improve their network operations and efficiencies. To ensure a successful shift, school leaders should ask the right questions and collect the right information. This CoSN-led effort will help them do just that,” said Keith Krueger, CEO of CoSN.   
The new project will provide district technology leaders with an understanding of cloud computing and support their district’s shift to the cloud. See the SEND: Cloud Guide to the Cloud, a resource that orients district leaders to the overall cloud computing imperative, advantages and misconceptions, and guidance for beginning the migration to cloud computing.
CoSN will also develop the following through this work:
  • Infographics for non-technical leaders about the cloud imperative;
  • Communications guidance to help school technology leaders explain cloud computing to superintendents and school boards;
  • Stories and case studies of districts and their journey to the cloud;
  • Resources to demystify the cloud for school systems; and
  • Additional tools to help district technology leaders migrate to the cloud.
“I am really pleased that CoSN is investing time and expertise in helping districts understand how to leverage the power of the cloud to improve learning. Moving infrastructure to the cloud is a great ‘next step’ in building future ready schools,” said Andrew Ko, Director of Education, Worldwide Public Sector, Amazon Web Services.
“Today’s school districts are undergoing significant digital transformations that require a rapid expansion of their technology platforms,” said Simone Welter, Senior Product Manager of Cloud Solutions, ENA. “ENA has witnessed first-hand the value of school districts leveraging the cloud to streamline operations, expand services and safeguard their data. CoSN’s SEND: Cloud project will empower school districts with the information and resources they need to enhance and grow their cloud computing initiatives.” 
SEND: Cloud is part of the CoSN’s SEND Initiative, which provides school districts with the resources to successfully modernize their networks and support the increasing demands of teaching and learning.
To learn more, please visit here.
Additional Quotes from Experts
Marie Bjerede, Principal, Mobile Learning and Infrastructure, CoSN
“Cloud computing is, for a number of reasons, becoming an imperative for K-12 education networks. The new cloud computing resource from the SEND: Cloud initiative will help districts that are beginning their journey to the cloud.”
William Michael Dembi, Infrastructure Specialist, Idaho Digital Learning Academy
“Cloud computing has become an essential part of the IT landscape. Many schools have recognized the benefit of utilizing cloud resources in lieu of on premise infrastructure. Although it offers a variety of benefits, the cloud can be confusing for organizations of any size. It’s helpful that CoSN assists with some of this confusion.”
Mark Finstrom, Chief Technology Officer, Highline Public Schools (WA)
“I am very pleased to have been a contributing member of CoSN’s Smart Education Network by Design: Guide to the Cloud project. We have worked hard to encapsulate the information needed to make wise decisions, while allowing for variance in use and adoption. The team labored over the content as cloud advantages and security are on all of our minds. It was great to have a team of industry experts to bounce ideas off and to collaborate on the final product.  I truly believe that the information presented offers the reader a comprehensive overview of Education Use of Cloud Services.”
Bob Moore, Chief Technology Officer, Dallas Independent School District (TX)
“Moving to the cloud for K-12 CTOs is no longer an option, it is the option. The new SEND resource lays a solid foundation for CTOs to begin moving sooner rather than later.”