Dear Families,
We are writing to update you on a cybersecurity breach that has affected PowerSchool, which provides our Student Information System (SIS). PowerSchool recently discovered unauthorized access to its systems and is working to address the situation.
What Happened?
According to PowerSchool, someone used a compromised credential to access data stored in their Student Information System. When PowerSchool became aware of the incident, they notified law enforcement, locked down the system, and took additional steps.
What Data Could Have Been Accessed?
Initial information from PowerSchool indicates that Personally Identifiable Information (PII) for staff and students may have been accessed for some districts. This may include contact information, including names and addresses, dates of birth, and grade information for current and former students, staff, and parent/guardian names and addresses. Please note: This breach is on PowerSchool’s end and has not affected any of our other systems in the district.
What Happens Next?
PowerSchool has stated, “While we are unaware of and do not expect any actual or attempted misuse of personal information or any financial harm to impacted individuals as a result of this incident, PowerSchool will be providing credit monitoring to affected adults and identity protection services to affected minors in accordance with regulatory and contractual obligations.” While PowerSchool is responsible for this incident and its impact, the school's technology team is reviewing our Student Information System to better understand what potential staff and student information was accessed. In addition, we have reported in the incident in alignment with the PA Department of Homeland Security's guidance on Cybercrime.
Who Can I Contact With Questions And Concerns?
We anticipate PowerSchool will provide impacted individuals with resources for additional information, which we will share at that time.
We have been informed that it is safe to continue using your PowerSchool account and we will continue to keep our families informed as we move forward.
Thank You,
Beth Birnkrant
Principal