The article discusses the increasing vulnerability of K–12 schools to cybercrime, particularly ransomware attacks, and highlights the adoption of Identity and Access Management (IAM) systems as a critical cybersecurity measure. Given that password-based attacks constitute over 99% of daily identity attacks globally, schools are prioritizing IAM to restrict unauthorized network access and protect sensitive data. Experts emphasize IAM’s role in enforcing compliance with privacy regulations, reducing administrative burdens, and mitigating breach risks through multifactor authentication (MFA), role-based access control, and encryption. Neeraj (Raj) Kapur, Orange County Public Schools’ IT director, describes transitioning to a centralized IAM platform that automates identity lifecycle management, employs MFA, and encrypts credentials to streamline security. The platform also features privileged access management (PAM) to protect high-level user accounts and a self-service portal that blocks compromised passwords. Similarly, Sateesh Narahari of ManagedMethods notes that IAM addresses risks from distributed environments and remote access by moving beyond reliance on traditional username/password systems. IAM supports a zero-trust security model, as explained by Houbing Herbert Song, where every access request undergoes continuous verification based on user identity, device security, and contextual factors. Kapur highlights that Orange County’s IAM tools enforce least-privilege policies, ensuring users access only necessary systems—such as finance or HR databases—and confirm device approval for each login. Schools implementing IAM are advised to follow best practices: 1. **Define the landscape**: Identify systems, applications, and user roles to determine access requirements. 2. **Role-based access management**: Restrict entry to resources based on job functions, preventing overprivileged access. 3. **Stakeholder engagement**: Involve non-IT departments to align security measures with operational needs. IAM also simplifies compliance with federal and state privacy laws. Kapur explains that automated tools generate audit-ready reports demonstrating adherence to least-privilege principles and risk-adjusted authentication policies. Beyond compliance, IAM enables proactive defense in evolving cyberthreat environments. The article underscores that IAM reduces administrative overhead, allowing schools to focus on education while addressing risks like quishing (QR code phishing) and AI-related vulnerabilities. Examples from Orange County and insights from experts such as Ed Skoudis of SANS Technology Institute reinforce IAM’s dual role in enhancing security and operational efficiency. In summary, IAM systems are integral to modern K–12 cybersecurity strategies, providing layers of authentication, encryption, and access control to counter rising threats. By modernizing IT infrastructure and fostering cross-departmental collaboration, schools can better protect data, comply with regulations, and adapt to complex digital environments.