Unlocking Cyber Skills: How Scholarships Empower Teachers at Dakota State University – Brookings Register

Dakota State University

MADISON — High school teachers across the country are receiving much-needed support through the National Cybersecurity Teaching Academy. This initiative offers scholarships for educators to specialize in computer science and cyber education.

Backed by a grant from the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity, participants will dive into essential topics like the fundamentals of cybersecurity and advanced network security. The aim is to empower teachers with knowledge they can pass on to their students.

“We are excited to aid high school teachers in learning essential cybersecurity concepts, building local programs, and sharing their expertise,” said Fenecia Homan, dean of the Governors Cyber Academy and K-12 initiatives.

The scholarship recipients will attend one of seven participating colleges, each tailored to their specific interests. Dakota State’s 18-credit online program features six key courses: Cyber Leadership and Ethics, Artificial Intelligence for Educators, Cybersecurity for Educators, Computer Programming for Educators, Hardware and Networking for Educators, and a Cybersecurity Practicum.

This program specifically targets rural teachers, aiming to give them a sturdy grasp of cybersecurity concepts. This knowledge can help them meet the varied needs and interests of their students. Despite being online, students will engage in hands-on activities and labs at the DSU PowerCyber Lab. The certificate also fulfills South Dakota’s requirements for computer science and IT endorsements and prepares educators to teach dual enrollment courses through the Governors Cyber Academy.

Interestingly, these courses are not exclusive to scholarship recipients. Any educator looking to expand their education and skills can join in.

This year, Dakota State University awarded the NCTA scholarship to 22 teachers from 11 states, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of cybersecurity education. As the demand for cybersecurity professionals rises — with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 31% job growth in this field by 2029 — programs like this are crucial in preparing young minds for future challenges.

The initiative not only addresses the immediate needs of educators but also taps into a larger shift in our digital landscape. As cyber threats continue to evolve, the importance of cybersecurity education has never been clearer. By investing in teaching professionals now, we are helping to build a more secure future.

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