CoSN today released a new version of its national privacy toolkit for school system leaders. The updated Protecting Privacy in Connected Learning Toolkit, Version 3 equips districts with modern guidance to improve their privacy efforts, from complying with legal requirements to establishing trust within their communities.  
 
Developed by privacy experts and school technology leaders, the toolkit builds on CoSN’s privacy leadership through the Protecting Privacy initiative.
 
“In this exciting era of education, school leaders should advance their privacy efforts to safely harness the promise of ‘anytime, anywhere’ learning,” said Keith Krueger, CEO of CoSN. “New technologies have positively changed the landscape, so it is important that districts demonstrate their privacy commitment and build a climate of trust. The upgraded CoSN toolkit will put them on that path.”
 
The Toolkit has been updated to include:
 
  • Expanded sections on the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA);
  • Further explanation of the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment;
  • Privacy requirements of the National Student Lunch Act
  • New details on how key federal data privacy laws operate together;
  • Definitions of key privacy terms, suggested contract terms and security questions for service providers; as well as
  • Guidance and information about metadata and data de-identification issues and the use of click-wrap agreements.
To help school systems launch or refresh their privacy efforts, CoSN’s Toolkit puts forth steps school leaders should take, which include designating a privacy official, leveraging procurement options, gaining a thorough understanding of privacy laws, adopting school community norms and policies, and informing parents of policies and practices. The Toolkit also points school leaders to additional sources to strengthen their commitment.  
 
Access the full toolkit here.
 
The Protecting Privacy in Connected Learning Initiative is supported by FileWave, HP, McGraw-Hill and Microsoft.
 
Learn more about CoSN’s privacy leadership – including the national Trusted Learning Environment Seal and facilitated online privacy training – at: cosn.org/privacy.