Technology Services

The Technology Services team provides comprehensive support to help districts operate smoothly and effectively. We offer network and backup services, manage the ESC print shop, and deliver instructional technology training to help educators integrate tools, software, and digital resources into the classroom. Our goal is to ensure school personnel have the resources, knowledge, and support needed to leverage technology confidently and efficiently.
Our team includes:
- Michael Boydstun, Network and Security Administrator
- Jason Patrick, Network and Database Administrator
- Brenna Roedell, Cybersecurity & Data Strategist
- Christy Johnson, Digital Enagement Lead
- Brady Dalton, Instructional Technology Specialist
Cooperatives
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This cooperative provides districts with a proactive, multi-layered defense strategy. By combining technical assessments with professional guidance, we help districts identify risks before they are exploited and ensure all staff members contribute to a secure network environment.
Core Security Services
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Vulnerability Assessments: We conduct both Internal and External Vulnerability Scanning to identify weaknesses in your infrastructure, providing clear, actionable steps for remediation.
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Professional Consultation: Districts gain access to Virtual Information Security Consultation and regular cybersecurity updates.
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Collaborative Training: Through Cybersecurity Services Meetings, we provide integration training and resources designed to help end-users maintain high security standards.
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Advanced Testing: Starting in Year 2, the program will expand to include Penetration Testing to simulate real-world attacks and test your defenses.
Network Monitoring with Wazuh
To provide real-time visibility into your environment, this program includes the installation and configuration of Wazuh, a powerful network monitoring tool.
Hardware Requirements for Wazuh: To ensure continuous monitoring and data integrity, the district must provide:
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Dedicated PC: A stand-alone computer reserved exclusively for the Wazuh software.
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Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): To maintain network connectivity and monitoring during power fluctuations or outages.
Enhanced Compliance & Add-ons
Districts can further strengthen their security posture by adding optional services, such as Advanced Security Awareness Training and Data Classification. These components are designed to work together to help your district achieve and maintain compliance with Senate Bill 820.
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In response to the increasing threat of ransomware and other malicious cyber activity targeting school systems across Texas, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) launched the K-12 Cybersecurity Initiative in 2023. The initiative was made possible through funding approved by the 88th Texas Legislature, which supported TEA’s request for dedicated cybersecurity resources to help school systems strengthen their defenses and respond to emerging cyber risks.
The goal of the initiative is to deliver immediate, practical solutions to help LEAs defend against major cyber incidents, such as ransomware attacks. Priority is given to rural school systems, and cybersecurity practitioners are available through regional education service centers to support the implementation of cybersecurity controls aligned with the scope of this initiative. Region 9 is equipped to provide technical assistance with the implementation and configuration of cyber security controls for interested LEAs.
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Region 9 Education Service Center offers services to assist districts/charters with maintenance of internal network connections. These services cover internal Local Area network (LAN) connections and general network maintenance. Services can be purchased at a daily rate for on-site assistance or at an hourly rate for remote assistance.
Services provided:
- Network troubleshooting
- Network device installation
- Installation of network equipment
- Server support and installation
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In an effort to assist districts/charters in data backup, Region 9 Education Service Center offers an email archiving solution, as well as an off-site rack space rental option. Both of these services are available to districts/charters that are members of the Net9 Internet Service Provider (ISP) Cooperative.
Rack Space: Districts/charters can purchase rack space in Region 9 Education Service Center’s server room to house a district owned and maintained server for the purpose of off-site backup. This server room is climate controlled, secured against unauthorized entry via a keypad and card access, and backed up by a generator.
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As part of the Instructional Technology Services Co-op, participating districts gain access to a wide range of resources designed to support the effective integration of technology into high-quality instruction. Members can attend professional development sessions at no cost, receive our monthly newsletter filled with tips and updates, tune in to our informative podcast, and participate in a monthly Lunch & Learn to explore new tools and strategies with peers. The Co-op provides practical support and ongoing opportunities to strengthen teaching and learning through technology.
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The Region 9 ESC Print Shop offers the following services to the school districts in Region 9:
- Black and white/color printing
- Large format posters
- Binding and coiling
- Laminating
We look forward to serving you!
For a schedule of fees or further information, contact Kami Segers or Kelly Sewell.
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