A recent cyber attack traced to a compromised computer within the Nevada Joint Union High School District has resulted in a total shutdown of internet access across schools in Nevada County. Superintendent Dan Frisella confirmed that the attack originated from a British IP address, although he cautioned that such addresses can be easily spoofed. The incident highlights ongoing vulnerabilities in school cybersecurity and the challenges districts face in protecting their networks.
In response to the breach, the district has disabled internet access at its five high school campuses, which include Nevada Union, Bear River, Ghidotti, North Point Academy, and Silver Springs. Additionally, this disruption has affected other nearby school districts, including Grass Valley School District and Nevada City School District, that rely on the Nevada Joint Union High School District for internet services. As a precautionary measure, officials are investigating the nature and scope of the attack to prevent further incidents.
While teachers and students cope with the loss of internet access, they are finding creative ways to adapt. Many classrooms have reverted to traditional methods of teaching, utilizing books and board games to keep students engaged. In Career Technical Education classes, for example, students are participating in hands-on activities, such as manual sawing techniques in Ag Mechanics, allowing them to continue their learning without reliance on digital resources.
As of the latest updates, officials indicate that the internet service is likely to remain down for the day. Superintendent Frisella has emphasized the importance of this situation as an opportunity for reflection on the dependency on internet infrastructure in education. The Nevada Joint Union High School District will continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that the board meeting scheduled for later today will proceed, although it may not be broadcast online as usual.
