The Indiana Department of Education on May 13 launched a statewide cybersecurity education initiative aimed at expanding K-12 coursework and connecting students to college credit, work-based learning, National Guard service, and cybersecurity jobs.
The state said in a press release that the initiative will build a comprehensive pathway linking high schools, two- and four-year institutions, the Indiana National Guard, and employers.
“Through this collaboration, Indiana’s cybersecurity sector will be able to meet its talent needs with highly-skilled homegrown professionals, and our students will be better prepared than ever before to excel in these high-wage, high-demand careers that will shape the future of our state and nation,” Gov. Mike Braun said.
State officials said 69 Indiana public high schools currently offer cybersecurity courses, reaching about 562 students. Over the next three years, the state aims to expand access to 200 high schools and reach about 4,000 students.
The initiative is led by the Indiana Department of Education and includes College Board, Project Lead the Way (PLTW), Indiana Cyber Network, Indiana National Guard, Ivy Tech Community College, Indiana Chamber of Commerce Defense Council, Eli Lilly and Company, and other partners.
The state said the effort will expand access to AP Cybersecurity and PLTW Cybersecurity courses, allowing students to earn high school and college credit and participate in work-based learning.
The state is also working to develop a cybersecurity credential that can move students into college or high-demand careers.
“As technology continues to evolve rapidly, the prevalence and sophistication of cyberattacks is also increasing at an alarming rate, thus impacting our schools, our communities, and even our national security,” said Indiana Secretary of Education Katie Jenner.
“Central to our mission in K-12 is helping our students to find their unique purpose, to thrive in life and in their career, and to tackle the greatest challenges of our time,” Jenner added. “By urgently expanding cybersecurity pathways, we can create stronger, more prepared citizens and better protect our state and homeland.”
