With hundreds of apps in use across a district, IT teams need a way to ensure these tools are safe, compliant, and aligned with educational goals. A free App Audit can help by providing a clear picture of app usage, identifying compliance risks, and supporting better decision-making for IT leaders.

What is an App Audit? 

An App Audit is a comprehensive review of the applications used across a district’s network. It provides visibility into app adoption, compliance with student data privacy laws, and potential security risks.

This process helps schools answer important questions:

• Which apps are actively being used by students and staff?
• Are these apps compliant with FERPA, COPPA, and state data privacy laws?
• Are there security concerns, such as unapproved apps with unknown data policies?
• Could the district optimize app usage to improve efficiency and reduce costs?

By addressing these questions, an App Audit allows school IT teams to take proactive steps to manage risks and improve technology oversight without adding extra burden to their workload.

Why Schools Benefit from an App Audit 

1. Ensuring Student Data Privacy & Security

Student privacy laws like FERPA and COPPA set strict guidelines for how schools manage data, but keeping up with compliance can be difficult. Edtech providers often update their privacy policies—sometimes multiple times a year—making it hard to track changes.

An App Audit helps identify applications that may not fully comply with student data privacy requirements, so districts can make informed decisions about which tools are safe to use.

2. Gaining Visibility into App Usage

Teachers and students often try new tools without going through formal approval processes. While many of these apps provide valuable learning opportunities, unapproved tools can introduce security risks and compliance concerns.

An audit uncovers which apps are being used across the district, allowing IT teams to assess their security and privacy policies and determine if they should be officially adopted or restricted.

3. Optimizing Technology Budgets

Many districts struggle with app sprawl, where multiple applications serve similar purposes. This can lead to redundant spending and inefficient technology adoption.

By reviewing app usage data, an audit helps districts identify underused or duplicate applications—allowing them to streamline approvals, consolidate tools, and reallocate resources to higher-impact technology.

4. Supporting Accessibility & Connectivity

Ensuring all students have access to the tools they need to succeed is a priority for schools. However, some applications may not meet accessibility standards or may be difficult for certain student populations to use effectively.

An audit provides insight into which apps meet accessibility guidelines and how technology is being used across different student groups, helping districts ensure equitable access to learning resources.

How Schools Can Use App Audit Insights 

Once a district completes an App Audit, they receive a detailed report with findings and recommendations. This information can help IT teams:

• Strengthen privacy and security policies.
• Identify and remove non-compliant or underused apps.
• Improve budget planning for future technology investments.
• Ensure apps align with district-wide accessibility and equity goals.

Taking the time to review app usage and compliance helps districts create a safer, more efficient digital learning environment—without adding extra work to already busy IT teams.

Managing edtech applications is an ongoing challenge, but having clear visibility into app usage and compliance makes the process easier. An App Audit is a helpful tool that supports schools in protecting student data, strengthening security, and optimizing technology resources.

By proactively reviewing app ecosystems, schools can ensure their digital tools continue to serve students and educators safely and effectively. Get tailored, in-depth insights into your district’s compliance, data privacy, accessibility, and cost-saving efforts – equipping campuses with a comprehensive overview of their tech landscape in one actionable report with Lightspeed App Audit.

The post How a Free App Audit Can Help Schools Manage Privacy, Security, and Compliance appeared first on Lightspeed Systems.

Lightspeed Insight helps IT teams quickly identify and block prohibited applications without the burden of manual tracking by continuously monitoring and flagging banned apps. See a detailed view of usage of applications impacted under the tag “TXSB1893 Ban” and take action to automatically block them in Lightspeed Filter.

What Is SB 1893?

Texas Senate Bill 1893 (SB 1893) restricts certain apps and technologies from being used in K-12 public schools, based on guidance from the Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR). The goal is to enhance cybersecurity, protect sensitive student data, and reduce potential risks from high-risk applications.

But compliance isn’t just about blocking a few apps and calling it a day. New risks emerge constantly, and districts need a proactive strategy to ensure ongoing compliance.

Newly Flagged Apps in Lightspeed Insight

To simplify compliance, we continuously update our list of flagged applications as new ones are added, ensuring Texas districts stay aligned with requirements without manual tracking. Recent additions include:

• DeepSeek – An emerging search engine flagged for security and privacy concerns
• RedNote – A media-sharing app with limited oversight
• Lemon8 – A social media platform with potential student data vulnerabilities
• MooMoo, Tiger Brokers, and WeBull – Trading and investment apps that do not belong on school networks

Time for an App Audit?

With new apps being regularly flagged, now is the time to audit your district’s app usage and make sure prohibited applications are not slipping through the cracks.

Run an App Audit with Lightspeed Insight today and ensure your district stays ahead of SB 1893 compliance. Schedule your app audit or a Lightspeed Insight demo today.

The post Texas SB 1893 Updates: Navigating Compliance as the Banned Apps List Grows  appeared first on Lightspeed Systems.

The post 3 Steps to Building a Culture of Student Data Privacy in Your School District appeared first on Lightspeed Systems.

The post A Focus on Focus: Technology, Education, and Student Success  appeared first on Lightspeed Systems.

Current systems are often disconnected, leaving IT administrators without the centralized insights they need to address issues proactively. This reactive approach not only leads to lost learning time but also increases costs and widens equity gaps. Research shows that 30% of total device costs stem from maintenance and management, and an average of 6.5 minutes of learning per hour is lost to technical issues. 

Lightspeed Signal: Integrated Insights for Connected Learning 

Lightspeed Systems SmartAgent technology collects and consolidates the data needed to support IT Teams to monitor device health, app performance, and network status into an intuitive platform. Lightspeed Signal equips K-12 IT teams with integrated insights to proactively minimize classroom disruptions, streamline inventory management, and support districtwide internet connectivity initiatives. This innovative tool transforms IT operations from reactive troubleshooting to predictive management with three essential views —device health, app performance, and network connectivity— paired with proactive notifications to provide a clear, actionable understanding of a district’s technology infrastructure. 

With three essential views —device health, app performance, and network connectivity— paired with proactive notifications, IT admins get a clear, actionable understanding of their technology infrastructure. 

Maximise Device Health & ROI 

• Monitor device health: view device model, battery health, storage usage, and more in a single view. 

• Optimise Device Inventory: Track devices to primary users, identify inactive devices, and reduce wasted resources. 

• Identify Security Risks: Detect access by non-rostered users, VPN usage, and unexpected device locations to mitigate risks. 
   

Monitor App Performance 

• Prevent App Outage Impact: Get real-time alerts on app outages to keep users informed and resolve issues before they impact learning. 

• See Outage Details: Understand the outage reach, users and schools impacted, and error codes seen 

• Ensure App Reliability: Analyze app uptime, outage patterns, and latency to prevent recurring issues and meet SLAs. 
   

Ensure Internet Strength 

• Strengthen Internet Connectivity: Map network health, identify coverage gaps, and support equitable access for students on and off-campus. 

• Showcase Success: Provide stakeholders with visual data on network health improvements and connectivity initiatives to demonstrate impact. 

Lightspeed Signal: A Proactive Approach to IT Management 

Lightspeed Signal is a purpose-built platform that empowers districts to manage the complexities of education technology with precision, providing actionable insights and tools to ensure optimal performance and equitable access. By reducing reactive troubleshooting, enhancing visibility, and delivering actionable insights, Lightspeed Signal empowers IT teams to focus on what matters most: creating seamless, equitable learning environments for students and educators alike. 

Discover how Lightspeed Signal can transform IT management in your district. Learn more or schedule a demo today. 

The post Introducing Lightspeed Signal: Smarter IT Management for Schools appeared first on Lightspeed Systems.

1. Teacher and Staff Shortages Will Persist

A new presidential administration always brings change, and education leaders are watching closely to understand how new policies will impact K-12 schools. With a focus on reducing administrative overhead without cutting funding for students, the current administration appears committed to supporting education while demanding accountability

While concerns about funding cuts are natural, there’s good reason to believe education will remain a priority. Districts should feel confident that their challenges—teacher shortages, student safety, cybersecurity, equitable resource allocation, and responsible technology use—will continue to receive attention at both state and federal levels. Here are five key predictions for 2025 and actionable strategies to help district leaders address these pressing issues while staying focused on their mission: educating and empowering students. 

Action Plan

District leaders must implement innovative strategies to attract, support, and retain educators, such as:

• Offering competitive salaries and benefits to make teaching positions more appealing.
• Providing robust professional development to empower educators and foster growth.
• Streamlining administrative tasks using technology like Lightspeed Classroom to free up teachers’ time for instruction.

Some states are already taking proactive measures. For instance, Texas is exploring a teacher homebuyer incentive program in San Antonio to retain educators. Adopting creative solutions like these can help districts address the ongoing shortage and ensure classrooms are staffed with dedicated professionals.

2. Student Safety and Well-being Concerns Will Require More Support

Student safety — both physical and emotional — will remain a critical focus in 2025. A 2024 National Center for Education Statistics survey reported that 79% of public schools experienced incidents of violence, theft, or other crimes. Tragically, school shootings have also risen sharply, with 58 incidents resulting in injuries or deaths reported by October 2024, compared to 36 in 2020.

Action Plan

Districts must adopt a comprehensive, proactive approach to safety, including:

• Enhance mental health support. Invest in counseling, crisis intervention, and social-emotional learning programs to identify and support at-risk students.
• Foster a positive school climate by encouraging inclusivity and respect. Implement anti-bullying clubs and initiatives that address root causes of violence.
• Implement anonymous reporting systems to provide secure channels for reporting concerning behavior to enable early intervention.

By addressing both the emotional and physical safety of students, districts can create environments that support learning and well-being.

3. Cybersecurity Threats Will Escalate

With growing reliance on technology, K-12 schools face increasing threats from cyberattacks. Between November 2022 and October 2023 alone, 85 ransomware attacks targeted schools, adding to the 325 incidents reported between 2016 and 2022, according to K12 Security Information Exchange (K12 SIX). The cost of a single ransomware attack now averages $1.85 million, disrupting school operations and impacting students and families.

Action Plan

To mitigate these risks, district leaders must:

• Strengthen cybersecurity measures, such as firewalls, intrusion detection, and secure cloud solutions like Lightspeed Systems.
• Conduct comprehensive cybersecurity training for staff and students to foster awareness and best practices.
• Develop and regularly test incident response plans while ensuring reliable data backups to minimize disruptions.

By prioritizing cybersecurity, districts can safeguard their operations and protect sensitive data from malicious actors.

4. Funding Challenges and Resource Inequities Will Deepen

Federal education funding cuts and the redirection of resources to private schools under initiatives like “Project 2025” could exacerbate funding challenges. A 2024 analysis by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities predicts that 27 states will have lower per-student funding in 2025 compared to 2023. Additionally, the expiration of Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funding will force districts to find new ways to sustain critical programs.

Action Plan

To address funding challenges and ensure equitable resource allocation, districts should:

• Explore alternative funding sources such as grants, partnerships, and community initiatives, while advocating for increased state-level funding.
• Streamline operations and identify cost-saving measures, such as shared services across districts or schools.
• Engage parents, community organizations, and local leaders to build support for equitable funding initiatives.

Leveraging data-driven decision-making tools can also help districts allocate resources more efficiently and effectively.

5. Bans on Cell Phones and Social Media in Schools Will Spark Further Debate

As concerns grow over the impact of cell phones and social media on student focus, mental health, and classroom dynamics, many schools are implementing restrictions or outright bans. In 2024, nearly 20% of U.S. school districts adopted policies limiting cell phone use during school hours, while others banned access to social media platforms altogether. These measures aim to reduce distractions, improve academic performance, and address the negative effects of social media on mental health, such as increased anxiety, cyberbullying, and overuse.

While these policies have been praised by some parents and educators, they have also sparked debates about equity, enforcement, and the proper role of technology in schools. Critics argue that such bans may inadvertently hinder students’ ability to develop essential digital skills and navigate the complexities of a highly connected world.

Action Plan

District leaders should approach cell phone and social media policies in a way that balances the need for focus and safety with preparing students for life in the digital age. Key strategies include:

• Incorporate digital citizenship programs into the curriculum to teach students how to use technology responsibly, evaluate online content critically, and engage respectfully on social platforms. Empowering students with these skills can reduce the need for restrictive policies.
•  Develop transparent guidelines to establish clear and fair policies around when and where cell phones can be used. For instance, allowing phone use during lunch or breaks but restricting it in classrooms can strike a balance between connectivity and focus.
• Host workshops or provide resources to engage Parents and Educators about the importance of responsible technology use and the risks of excessive screen time. This can help build community support for policies that focus on student well-being.

By combining practical restrictions with education about digital citizenship, districts can create policies that foster healthier relationships with technology while equipping students with the skills they need to succeed in a digital world.

Partnering with Lightspeed Systems for Success

At Lightspeed Systems, we understand the challenges facing district leaders and are committed to supporting their efforts. Our education technology solutions are designed to enhance safety, streamline operations, and provide data-driven insights to guide decision-making. By partnering with Lightspeed, districts can focus on their core mission: educating and empowering students.

As we look ahead to 2025, Lightspeed Systems stands ready to help district leaders navigate these challenges and create a brighter future for their schools and communities. Together, we can overcome obstacles and shape a better tomorrow for students.

The post A New President and the Future of K-12 Education: Top 5 Predictions and Action Plans for 2025 appeared first on Lightspeed Systems.

Research shows that excessive screen time can impact students’ mental health, academic performance, and sleep. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children aged 8-18 spend an average of 7.5 hours a day on screens, and excessive usage has been linked to increased anxiety and decreased focus. Parents and mental health professionals alike rank managing screen time as a top concern, highlighting the need for balance to protect students’ well-being while supporting their learning.

Taking Back Control of Screen Time

1. Report on Screen Time

The first step to managing screen time is understanding how students are using their devices. Tools like Lightspeed Digital Insight provide detailed reports on device usage, including the amount of time spent on educational apps versus distractions. With this visibility, educators and IT administrators can identify patterns, highlight excessive use, and take proactive steps to keep students focused on learning.

2. Turn Off Devices in Class

Sometimes, students need a break from their screens to fully engage with in-person instruction. With Lightspeed Classroom, teachers can temporarily lock devices to encourage hands-on activities, discussions, and face-to-face collaboration. By reducing screen time during certain parts of the day, schools can foster a more balanced learning environment and give students the chance to recharge.

3. Manage Device Use After School

Screen time management doesn’t stop at the school gates. Parents play a crucial role in setting boundaries for after-school device use. With the Lightspeed Parent Portal, families can view their child’s screen activity and even pause internet access on school-issued devices during homework time, family meals, or bedtime. This feature helps create healthy habits and ensures students get the downtime they need to thrive.

Conclusion

Managing screen time on K-12 devices is about balance – leveraging technology to enhance learning while protecting students’ well-being. By reporting on screen activity, creating screen-free moments during class, and partnering with parents for after-school management, schools can take a proactive approach to fostering healthy technology use. Lightspeed Systems tools make it easier than ever to monitor, manage, and optimize device usage, ensuring students have the tools they need to succeed without being overwhelmed by their screens.

The post Tech Resolutions: Helping Students Thrive with Healthy Screen Time Practices appeared first on Lightspeed Systems.

Student Data Privacy: Protecting Student Information

With student data increasingly stored and used online, regulations across the county set rigorous requirements for data protection and transparency. Laws mandate that districts evaluate the security practices of edtech vendors and obtain approval before collecting or sharing student data. Compliance requires conducting regular audits and ensuring vendor agreements meet state-specific standards.

We see this with TX SCOPE Act (HB 18), Ohio SB 29, and more.

How Lightspeed Helps:

• Real-Time Insights: Lightspeed Digital Insight provides detailed, real-time data on all applications used in the district.
• Privacy Assessments: Includes third-party reviews from 1EdTech and SDPC.
• Transparency Tools: Schools can assess app compliance with privacy laws, review data-sharing practices, maintain an up-to-date public-facing app list, and block non-compliant apps.

Parents’ Rights and Visibility: Enhancing Transparency

Regulations increasingly seek to increase parental access to information about student activity, including device monitoring and online activity and apps in use. Many state laws require districts to share a list of all edtech apps and resources with parents. These laws reflect the growing expectation for parental involvement in digital learning.

We see this with Ohio SB 29, Florida HB 1467, Texas HB 18, and more.

How Lightspeed Helps:

• Parent Portal: Provides families with a transparent view of their child’s online activity, including weekly reports and real-time alerts.
• Public App Lists: Lightspeed Digital Insight makes it easy to publish a list of all apps in use.

Accessibility: Creating Inclusive Learning Environments

Regulations require schools to ensure that all digital content, tools, and platforms meet accessibility standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This includes compatibility with screen readers and other assistive technologies, ensuring equal access for all students. Non-compliance can lead to significant legal and reputational risks.

We see this with Colorado’s HB 21-110 but expect growth across the country.

How Lightspeed Helps:

• Accessibility Reports: Lightspeed Digital Insight provides app-level data on accessibility features and highlights apps with or without public-facing VPATs.
• Inclusive Solutions: Lightspeed ensures its suite of tools aligns with ADA requirements to support equitable education.

Student Safety

Student safety has become a paramount concern, prompting the creation of new secure and supportive learning environments. These measures address issues such as violence prevention, mental health support, and emergency preparedness. The U.S. Department of Education has introduced comprehensive guidelines requiring schools to establish robust safety protocols, including threat assessment teams and anonymous reporting systems. Additionally, the 2024 Title IX Final Rule mandates that educational institutions take prompt and effective action to end any sex discrimination in their programs or activities, ensuring a safe environment for all students.

How Lightspeed Helps:

• Safety Alerts: Lightspeed Alert monitors online activity for signs of distress or harmful behavior, providing real-time alerts to designated personnel for swift intervention.
• Proactive Support: Tools help schools address safety concerns and comply with federal regulations.

By staying informed about these regulatory trends and leveraging appropriate technologies, K-12 schools can ensure compliance and foster a secure educational environment.

AI and Emerging Technology: Addressing New Risks

With the rapid adoption of AI tools in education, concerns have grown around data security, bias, and ethical use. Many states have issued guidance to ensure AI use in schools is safe, managed, and equitable.

How Lightspeed Helps:

• AI Reporting: Lightspeed Digital Insight provides reporting on AI app usage.
• Content Control: Lightspeed Filter allows districts to block AI sites by category, for specific users or groups.
• Classroom Oversight: Lightspeed Classroom Management gives teachers real-time visibility into students’ use of generative AI tools.

Preparing for 2025: What’s Next in Compliance?

As technology evolves, so too will regulations. District leaders must remain vigilant, tracking new laws and adapting their policies to meet changing standards. By partnering with Lightspeed Systems, schools gain access to tools that ensure compliance across a wide range of requirements while creating safer, more equitable learning environments.

Stay ahead of compliance challenges with Lightspeed Systems. Learn more about our solutions and how they can help your district navigate the complexities of 2024 and beyond. Visit our website for more information.

The post Education Regulations and Compliance Trends for K-12 Schools appeared first on Lightspeed Systems.

What is Zero Trust?

Zero Trust is a cybersecurity model based on the principle of “never trust, always verify.” Unlike traditional perimeter-based security, which assumes trust for devices and users within the network, Zero Trust continually validates every request to access resources, regardless of where the request originates. This proactive approach helps to minimize risks, prevent breaches, and ensure compliance with cybersecurity regulations.

For schools, this means extending security measures beyond campus networks, ensuring that every device, app, and user accessing school resources meets strict authentication and authorization standards.

Zero Trust in Action for K-12

Implementing a Zero Trust model in K-12 schools can address a variety of security challenges. Here’s how Lightspeed Systems leverages Zero Trust principles to create safer digital environments:

1. On-Device Filtering

Lightspeed’s solutions ensure that filtering and security controls remain active on every device, no matter where it’s being used. Whether students are at home, in the classroom, or on public Wi-Fi, on-device filtering protects against inappropriate content and cyber threats.

2. Layered Security

Zero Trust emphasizes a multi-layered security approach, complementing existing firewalls and identity management systems. Lightspeed integrates seamlessly with these systems, adding a crucial layer of protection for student and staff data.

3. Smart Categorization

With real-time updates from industry-leading protection lists and Lightspeed’s K-12-specific categorization framework, schools can block malicious websites and unsafe content instantly. This ensures that students access only safe and relevant resources, aligning with district goals.

4. Visibility and Control

A Zero Trust model requires granular visibility into all devices, apps, and user activities. Lightspeed provides comprehensive dashboards and customizable policies, giving schools the control they need to manage security effectively while maintaining a seamless user experience.

Benefits of Zero Trust for Schools

Adopting a Zero Trust framework provides schools with a proactive defense against modern cybersecurity threats while supporting their unique needs. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Enhanced Security: Continual verification prevents unauthorized access and protects sensitive data.
• Simplified Compliance: Built-in tools ensure alignment with regulations like CIPA and state-specific laws.
• Increased Flexibility: Secures a wide range of devices and learning environments without compromising usability.

Lightspeed’s Zero Trust Features

• Visibility & Control for parents
• Cybersecurity focused categories (7- including malware & fishing)
• Integration with industry protection lists
• Education focused categories
• Content flagging
• Granular YouTube controls
• Video reporting
• Social media controls
• Live user web activity
• Block search key words
• Device location
• Internet lockouts
• Setup (DNS, VM, Device-level agents)
• Zero Trust resource access policies
• User and group based access policies via cloud connectors
• Zero Trust NIST 800-207 criteria-based access policies (via after school rules)
• Encrypted Traffic Inspection and Protection (HTTPS Decrypt)
• Policy tracing for troubleshooting policies
• Rules & actions – block, allow, redirect
• Reporting, drill down reports, schedulable reporting
• Prevent malicious sources

Conclusion

Zero Trust represents a paradigm shift in cybersecurity, particularly for K-12 schools navigating the complexities of today’s digital learning environments. By implementing Zero Trust principles, schools can protect students and staff, secure their networks, and create safer spaces for learning. Lightspeed Systems is proud to be a trusted partner in this mission, offering solutions designed specifically to meet the unique challenges of education.

Are you ready to take the next step in securing your district? Learn more about how Lightspeed Systems can help implement a Zero Trust strategy tailored for your schools.

The post Implementing Zero Trust in K-12: A Proactive Approach to Digital Safety appeared first on Lightspeed Systems.

As 2024 draws to a close, we’re reflecting on a transformative year for Lightspeed Systems and the schools we serve. This year, our innovations have helped K-12 communities navigate safety challenges, improve classroom management, optimize budgets, and meet complex compliance demands—all while keeping student success and equity at the forefront. Here’s a look back at some of our most impactful achievements and updates. 

Lightspeed Digital Insight: Clarity in EdTech 

Schools face increasing pressure to make data-driven decisions about their tech investments. With Lightspeed Digital Insight, we delivered actionable analytics to help schools optimize resources and stay compliant: 

• State Compliance Tags: Tools like the “TX SB 1983 Banned” and “Public VPAT” tags simplify regulatory adherence for states like Texas and Colorado.
• Role-Based Access: Expanded visibility across districts to foster cross-department collaboration.
• Internet Access Map: Provided neighborhood-level insights into digital equity gaps, helping schools plan for better access in underserved areas.

These innovations ensure districts can maximize the impact of every dollar spent on edtech. 

Lightspeed Filter: Smarter, Faster, Safer 

We continued to make Lightspeed Filter the most comprehensive solution for web content filtering, ensuring students can explore online safely and productively. This year, we: 

• Introduced SafeSearch Category, enabling schools to easily block non-compliant search engines automatically.
• Simplified IT workflows with SmartShield IP-Based Policies, reducing costs and complexity for BYOD environments.
• Enhanced device-based management for lab settings, allowing IT administrators to map student emails to device serial numbers.

By focusing on proactive updates, we’ve ensured Lightspeed Filter adapts to modern challenges while remaining easy to use for administrators. 

Classroom Management: Empowering Teachers 

We understand that technology in the classroom should make teaching easier, not harder. That’s why we designed new tools to save teachers time and foster student engagement: 

• Teaching Team: Simplified collaboration with the ability to assign multiple teachers – like co-teachers and substitutes – to monitor and refocus students in real time. Customize permissions for each co-teacher.
• Pre-Class Organization: Teachers can now group students and apply web rules before the lesson begins, ensuring a smooth start to every class.
• Enhanced Troubleshooting: Quick insights into student screens help resolve tech issues before they disrupt learning.

These updates are about more than technology—they’re about giving teachers more time to focus on what they do best: teaching. 

Lightspeed Alert: A Safety Net for Every Student 

Student safety remained a top priority in 2024. With enhancements to Lightspeed Alert, we helped schools stay one step ahead in protecting students from harm: 

• Added Spanish, Portuguese, and Haitian-Creole Monitoring to expand detection capabilities for digital behavior across diverse student populations.
• Launched a Tip Line, offering an easy way for schools to identify and address potential safety risks early.
• Introduced Email Quarantine (in early access), giving administrators better oversight of email communications to prevent inappropriate or unsafe exchanges.
• New CPOMS Integration: Lightspeed now integrates with CPOMS, combining digital monitoring insights with incident management tools to enhance student safety and support. Read more.  

These tools aren’t just about monitoring—they’re about fostering a culture of proactive care. 

Mobile Device Management: Simplified and Streamlined 

Device management is essential to a school’s digital ecosystem, and this year, Lightspeed MDM became even more efficient: 

• Declarative Management: Updates for Apple devices reduced the complexity of managing apps and settings.
• Return to Service: Retained Wi-Fi credentials during device resets, saving IT teams time when preparing devices for new users.

Compliance Made Easy 

Navigating state and federal regulations can be overwhelming, but Lightspeed’s tools made it simpler: 

• Schools in Texas used the TX SB 1893 Banned App Tag in Lightspeed Digital Insight to quickly block and monitor usage for prohibited apps.
• Colorado districts leveraged the Public VPAT Tag in Lightspeed Digital Insight to expedite accessibility compliance under HB21-1110.
• Ohio districts utilized the Parent Portal Event Log in Lightspeed Filter to enhance parental transparency and engagement under SB29.

With these tools, schools stayed ahead of changing requirements while focusing on their mission: educating students. 

Looking Ahead 

As we celebrate the successes of 2024, we’re already planning for an even brighter 2025. From expanded safety features to more tools for improving digital equity and compliance, our mission remains clear: to empower schools with solutions that drive meaningful change. 

 Thank you for trusting us to be part of your journey. Here’s to another year of innovation and impact! 

The post 2024 Year in Review: Empowering Schools with Lightspeed Systems appeared first on Lightspeed Systems.