Ark. Code Ann. § 6-11-128 requires the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) to develop IT Security Policies. Pursuant to ADE Rules Governing the Processes to Ensure the Quality, Security, Validation and Timeliness of Public School Data in Arkansas Public School Computer Network (APSCN), the ADE in cooperation with Arkansas Department of Information Systems (DIS), Arkansas State Security Office, and Coalfire Systems, Inc. has developed IT Security Policies for Arkansas Public Schools. These security policies are attached.
Firewalls are a fundamental part of information security and are a first line defense for schools. Networks without firewalls are susceptible to compromise. It is the school’s responsibility to protect personal information about the students and staff.
Recently, all schools without firewalls were contacted by the DIS Security Division to offer to install a firewall. The firewalls are provided and maintained at no cost to the school but information is needed from the school before the firewall installation can occur. DIS would like to apply all school firewalls as soon as possible.
In order to facilitate the process, please complete the attached questionnaire and email it to DIS.Firewall@arkansas.gov. As the questionnaire is returned, please open a HEAT ticket at DIS by emailing dis.callcenter@arkansas.gov. Direct questions about the firewall installation process to DIS.Firewall@arkansas.gov.