Case Study: IDEA Public Schools achieves stronger virtual learning security with Duo Security

IDEA Public Schools, a network of tuition-free charter schools in the US, uses Duo to securely enable virtual learning

IDEA Public Schools, a fast-growing network of tuition-free charter schools, needed a stronger cybersecurity strategy to protect sensitive student and staff data as it rapidly moved to virtual learning during COVID-19. The organization also wanted to reduce ransomware risk and create a security framework that could scale across K-12 schools. IDEA Public Schools chose Duo Security and its multi-factor authentication (MFA) tools to help secure access while keeping the experience simple for staff.

Duo Security implemented a quick, centrally managed rollout with localized IT administration, training resources, and employee communications to support adoption. More than 90% of staff were enrolled within a few months, and IDEA Public Schools reported a major drop in daily account-compromise attempts—from hundreds or thousands to far fewer. Duo Security also helped make security easier for users while strengthening protection for sensitive data and FERPA-related records.

IDEA Public Schools

Aaron Thalman

Security Engineer