A Unique Cybersecurity Program at Lakota Local Schools
BECKETT RIDGE, Ohio — Lakota Local Schools is making waves with its innovative Cyber Academy, a program tailored to equip students with the skills they need for a career in cybersecurity. In today’s digital world, where information security has never been more critical, the academy is gaining national recognition for its proactive approach to preparing the next generation of cybersecurity experts.
The Urgent Need for Cybersecurity
The increasing prevalence of cyberattacks has underscored the importance of cybersecurity in our daily lives. Just last summer, a significant cyberattack crippled the computer system in Middletown, and during the fall, West Chester Township experienced two more breaches. These incidents serve as stark reminders of how vulnerable our digital infrastructure can be and highlight the need for students like those in Lakota’s Cyber Academy to step up and combat these threats.
A Training Ground for Future Experts
At the heart of the Cyber Academy is a commitment to providing real-world experience. The program is designed as a training ground where students practice and hone essential skills. Lakota West senior Caleb Kingan emphasizes the program’s significance, stating, “Everything’s online now—our bank information, credit cards, and identities.” His classmate Samantha Boothe, also a senior, adds, “Cybersecurity is about keeping online applications safe from those who want to steal information or hack into companies.”
The program currently serves hundreds of students, pushing them to collaborate and learn from one another. “We’re constantly pushing each other,” Caleb mentions. This spirit of collaboration is a hallmark of the Cyber Academy, encouraging students to learn through trial and error, cultivating resilience and adaptability—qualities that are invaluable in the cybersecurity field.
National Recognition
This year, Caleb and Samantha earned recognition on a national stage, being two of only eight students across the country honored during the National Cyber Signing Day held in Nashville. Their accolades are particularly notable because Lakota Local Schools became the first district to have two honorees simultaneously. “We were recognized for our achievements in cybersecurity,” Caleb shares, noting their extracurricular efforts such as internships and certifications.
A Prestigious Academy on the Rise
According to Jenny Circello, a teacher at the Cyber Academy, Lakota has been consistently recognized for its achievements every year. “We are a prestigious academy recognized across the nation,” she beams. With a few years of experience under her belt, Circello finds immense satisfaction in teaching students practical skills that will impact their futures. “It’s so neat to teach students skills that they will actually use in the workforce to protect other people,” she explains.
This unique program is indeed rare; only about 3.6% of high school students in the U.S. have access to specialized programs like the Cyber Academy, making it a valuable opportunity for those fortunate enough to enroll.
Future Aspirations
For students like Caleb and Samantha, the Cyber Academy has opened doors to futures they might not have envisioned otherwise. "I like that I can help areas that aren’t just tech," Samantha reflects. Many graduates of the program are pursuing further education in cybersecurity or joining the military, where their skills will be crucial in safeguarding information and maintaining digital security.
As the largest cybersecurity academy in the Midwest, Lakota’s program stands as a model for what can be achieved through innovative education. By connecting students with professionals and opportunities for internships, the academy is not just preparing students for jobs; it’s empowering them to become guardians of digital safety in an increasingly complex online world.
