‘Cyber abnormalities’ responsible for EPS closure Sept. 30

Published 1:50 pm Thursday, October 10, 2024

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EDWARDSBURG — Cyber abnormalities prompted Edwardsburg Public Schools to take its network down and close its school buildings on Sept. 30, according to a letter sent to families in the district.

The district worked with third party information technology experts to make sure that the proper protocols are followed and the correct steps are taken as it worked to bring its network back up, which was done to investigate what occurred so that the district is able to work to prevent it from occurring in the future. 

“Unfortunately, there have been many rumors being reported from parents and community

members,” wrote Superintendent Dr. Courtney Szucs. “Despite these rumors, the truth remains that we would not have had students return on (Oct. 1) if our buildings were not safe and if we did not have the ability to communicate with families and emergency personnel. This is why our first priority was to bring our phones back online for Tuesday. Our phones, staff email and all other aspects needed to run school safely are up and running.”

According to Dr. Szucs, the internet is up and running for all students and staff. 

“We have a few remaining items that we are working on, but overall the process of bringing our network back up has gone well. Our technology department has done a great job of working quickly so that staff and students have what they need to continue with their day to day educational activities.”

Dr. Szucs thanked district staff for working to make the education of students possible during this time.

“From what I have heard from students, including my own, our staff have made school not only as normal as possible, but have also added a little extra low tech fun,” she said. “I want to reiterate that we would never have staff or students in buildings that we felt to be unsafe. Please know that we take this situation very seriously, but incidents tend to become sensationalized. As a district we will continue to communicate with our families only truthful and accurate information as it becomes available.”