Clearview Public Schools Provides Updates on PowerSchool Data Breach

Clearview Public Schools is committed to protecting the privacy and security of our students, families, and staff. As part of our ongoing response to the PowerSchool data breach reported on January 7, 2025, we are providing updates regarding the steps being taken to address this issue and safeguard our community.
Timeline of Events
- January 7, 2025: PowerSchool informed Clearview Public Schools of a potential security breach affecting certain customer data.
- January 9, 2025: Based on the information at the time, we communicated to our stakeholders that the breach did not affect Clearview Public Schools.
- January 23, 2025: PowerSchool provided updated information confirming that Clearview Public Schools 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.
What Information Was Involved?
PowerSchool has confirmed that the breach involved limited demographic information.
Potentially Exposed Information for Students:
- 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 Information for Staff:
- 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 us that the accessed data was securely deleted and has not been copied or shared elsewhere. They are also working with cyber security and law enforcement to monitor any further risks.
Actions Taken by Clearview Public Schools
Clearview Public Schools has taken the following immediate steps:
- Engaging cybersecurity experts: Collaborating with PowerSchool and external professionals to secure systems and prevent future incidents.
- Enhanced communication protocols: Strengthening internal processes to ensure timely and effective communication.
- Support for affected individuals: Encouraging families and staff to take advantage of the complimentary identity protection and credit monitoring services offered by PowerSchool.
PowerSchool's Commitment to Support
PowerSchool is offering the following services to individuals whose information may have been involved:
- Two years of complimentary identity protection services: Provided by Experian for all affected individuals.
- Two years of complimentary credit monitoring: Provided by TransUnion for individuals of legal age.
- Notifications: PowerSchool will directly notify affected individuals via email and provide instructions for accessing these services in the coming weeks. They will not try and contact individuals by phone or text.
Next Steps for Families and Staff
We encourage all members of our community to remain vigilant. Consider the following best practices:
- Regularly review accounts for unusual activity.
- Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication where possible.
- Be cautious of phishing attempts and do not share personal information with unverified sources.
- Parents of children aged 16 to 18 are encouraged to initiate the protective measures outlined by PowerSchool on their behalf.
For more details, visit the PowerSchool Community FAQs or contact the call center when it becomes available.
For Questions or Support
If you have concerns or require assistance, please contact PowerSchool, as they will now take over communication directly related to this incident. Please visit https://www.powerschool.com/security/sis-incident/ for up-to-date information from PowerSchool on the cybersecurity incident.
Clearview Public Schools is committed to full transparency and accountability as we address this situation. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience and will continue to take every step necessary to protect the safety and security of our community.
For additional updates and resources, please visit our website at www.clearview.ab.ca or contact us via email at communications@clearview.ab.ca.
Scot Leys
Superintendent
Clearview Public Schools