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By rdnewsNOW Staff

INITIALLY THOUGHT UNAFFECTED

Clearview Public Schools provides update on PowerSchool breach

Jan 28, 2025 | 9:40 AM

A PowerSchool data breach that was reported earlier in January was initially thought to have left Clearview Public Schools unaffected, however an update from PowerSchool has confirmed otherwise.

The breach occurred on Dec. 28, 2024, and school divisions were informed on Jan. 7, 2025.

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Based on the information provided by PowerSchool, Clearview Public Schools reported on Jan. 9 that it was unaffected by the breach. The division says it has since received an update from PowerSchool, on Jan. 23, confirming that it was affected.

“We deeply regret this delay and have taken immediate steps to improve communication protocols to ensure timely escalation of critical notifications in the future,” says a statement from the division.

The following information was involved in the breach:

Potentially exposed student information:

• Alberta Student Number (ASN)
• First and last name
• Date of birth
• Student phone numbers
• Home/mailing address
• Basic medical alert information (e.g., asthma, allergies, diabetes)

Potentially exposed staff information:

• First and last name
• Date of birth
• Staff phone numbers
• Home/mailing address
• Clearview email address
• Social Insurance Numbers (SINs) for six staff members, all of whom have already been directly contacted.

Information not affected:

• Financial information (e.g., banking or credit card details)
• Student profile photos
• Passwords
• Birth certificates

PowerSchool has assured the division that the accessed data was securely deleted without being copied or shared elsewhere, and that they are working with cybersecurity and law enforcement to monitor further risks.

Clearview Public Schools says it immediately began engaging with cybersecurity experts to prevent future incidents; enhancing communication protocols to ensure timely and effective communication; and supporting affected individuals by encouraging them to take advantage of the identity protection and credit monitoring services being offered by PowerSchool for no cost.

In the coming weeks, PowerSchool will directly notify affected individuals about accessing these services via email.

Families and staff impacted are encouraged to regularly review their accounts for unusual activity, use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication when possible, and be cautious of phishing attempts and avoid sharing personal information. There are also protective measures outlined by PowerSchool for parents of children ages 16-18.

Anyone with questions or concerns, or requiring assistance is asked to contact PowerSchool as they have taken over communications for the incident. PowerSchool will also be providing updates online.