Campuses are wrestling with 'shadow data'—institutional records captured and shared outside approved systems—and a surge in cyberattacks that target student and staff data. IT leaders warn that unsanctioned data across cloud platforms and devices creates FERPA risks and complicates compliance; principals and deans are being asked to lead culture change on basic cybersecurity hygiene. School districts and colleges cite rising phishing and ransomware incidents and limited budgets for remediation. Experts recommend layered defenses, vendor governance, and training programs that make security a local leadership priority. Why it matters: data governance failures threaten student privacy, accreditation standing, and institutional finances; board‑level oversight and investment in cyber resilience are now urgent operational priorities.