In response to the growing threat of cyberattacks targeting educational institutions, the Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) has launched a comprehensive Cybersecurity Initiative to support school districts and career and technology centers (CTCs) across Berks County. Designed to strengthen data protection and encourage regional collaboration and resource sharing, the initiative is a proactive step toward building a more resilient and secure educational environment.
Launched in January 2025 by the BCIU Office of Information Technology, the initiative was developed to address growing concerns about cyber incidents impacting K-12 schools nationwide. Following a thorough assessment, the BCIU partnered with the Valander Group to implement advanced cybersecurity tools and provide expertise to participating schools and organizations.
A key component of the initiative is the use of Virtual Penetration (vPen) Testing for proactive vulnerability scanning. Through this program, participating schools and organizations receive unlimited vulnerability scanning and testing, helping them to identify and address security risks before they can be exploited. In addition, the initiative offers up to 16 hours of annual training for IT staff, reinforcing the importance of both technical readiness and professional development.
Phase 1 of the initiative focuses on regular testing and staff training within Berks County. Phase 2, set to launch in collaboration with Pennsylvania Instructional Media Services (PAIMS), the statewide IU ed tech group, aims to expand the program across the Commonwealth.
Currently, the following school districts and CTCs are participating in the program: Antietam, Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU), Berks Career & Technology Center (BCTC), Daniel Boone Area, Fleetwood Area, Hamburg Area, Muhlenberg, Oley Valley, Reading Muhlenberg Career & Technology Center (RMCTC), Schuylkill Valley, and Twin Valley.
“Cybersecurity is not just an IT issue—it’s a community priority,” said Scott Major, Chief Information Officer at the Berks County Intermediate Unit. “By bringing our districts and career and technology centers together under a unified strategy, we are strengthening the County’s ability to prevent, respond to, and recover from cyber threats. This initiative is about protecting our students, our staff, and the integrity of the educational experience in Berks County.”
In addition to technical support, the initiative seeks to promote a cybersecurity awareness and preparedness culture. As threats evolve, the BCIU remains committed to equipping schools with the tools, training, and partnerships necessary to protect their systems and communities.
For more information, please visit: https://www.berksiu.org/ page/cybersecurity.