New Kent County Public Schools has informed families about a cybersecurity incident reported by PowerSchool, the vendor hosting the district’s Student Information System (SIS). This system stores student and staff data essential to school operations.
Details of the Incident
PowerSchool recently informed NKCPS of unauthorized access to their systems that occurred in late December 2024. The breach may have impacted data belonging to some NKCPS families and staff.
What Information Was Affected?
According to PowerSchool, the breach involved certain contact details, such as names and addresses, and, in some cases, additional personally identifiable information (PII). NKCPS is awaiting further details from PowerSchool regarding the full scope of the incident.
PowerSchool’s Response
PowerSchool is collaborating with cybersecurity experts and law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, to investigate the breach. The company’s legal and cybersecurity teams have indicated that the stolen data has been destroyed and the issue contained.
Next Steps
PowerSchool has outlined the following actions:
- Identifying individuals whose information was affected.
- Sending formal notifications directly to impacted individuals.
- Offering identity protection services to those whose data was compromised, as necessary.
NKCPS will provide additional updates to families and staff as needed.
Commitment to Transparency
“We understand the concern this may cause and appreciate your patience as we await further updates from PowerSchool,” stated Superintendent Dr. Brian J. Nichols.
NKCPS remains committed to the security and privacy of its community’s data and will continue to work with PowerSchool to ensure all necessary measures are taken to address this incident.