GRANTS, NM—The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced the selection of four New Mexico schools and school districts, including the Grants-Cibola County School District, as participants in its Schools and Libraries Cybersecurity Pilot Program. This three-year initiative, which includes 707 participants nationwide, aims to explore the use of “universal service funds” to bolster cybersecurity defenses in schools and libraries.
The Grants-Cibola County School District, along with Gadsden Independent School District, Alamogordo Public Schools, and the Mission Achievement and Success Charter School District, will receive support through the program. This funding will help cover the costs of cybersecurity services and equipment, providing critical protection for broadband networks and sensitive data.
FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel explained the importance of the initiative, stating, “Making sure our students have access to all the opportunities of the digital world has been a cornerstone of my time at the Commission. It is also vitally important that this access is cybersecure.” She said the program's findings will provide valuable data to federal, state, and local partners on the most effective ways to address cybersecurity challenges in schools and libraries.
The program addresses the growing need for cybersecurity as schools and libraries increasingly adopt digital learning technologies. These advancements, while providing unparalleled access to information and opportunities, have also made institutions more vulnerable to cyberattacks. The FCC has allocated a $200 million budget, drawn from unused universal service funds, to ensure enhanced cybersecurity without compromising the success of the E-Rate program, which promotes equitable digital access.
Participants for the pilot were selected based on factors such as National School Lunch Program percentages and geographic diversity. The program places a particular focus on supporting low-income and Tribal applicants, ensuring that underserved communities benefit from strengthened cybersecurity.
Grants-Cibola County School District’s inclusion in the program marks a significant opportunity for the local community to enhance digital security and connectivity. The district’s participation underscores its commitment to providing a safe and secure digital learning environment for students and staff.
For more information and the full list of participants, visit the FCC website at https://www.fcc.gov/sites/default/files/c ybersecurity-pilot-program-participants. xlsx.