In this episode, we take a practical deep dive into the Trusted Learning Environment (TLE) Practices Self-Evaluation—the first big step districts can take on the journey to earning the CoSN TLE Seal.

You’ll learn how the Self-Evaluation helps schools measure their privacy practices across five key areas: Leadership, Business, Data Security, Professional Development, and Classroom. More importantly, you’ll hear how districts can use the results to highlight strengths, identify gaps, and chart a clear path forward.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• How the scoring works: From “not yet considered” to “mature policy in place,” and what each rating means.

• The five practice areas in detail:

  • Leadership – policies, accountability, and culture.

  • Business – vendor vetting and privacy in contracts.

  • Data Security – technical safeguards, audits, and recovery plans.

  • Professional Development – training staff and raising parent awareness.

  • Classroom – how teachers model safe practices and digital citizenship.

• The real value: Why the Self-Evaluation is less about pass/fail and more about building a roadmap.

• What happens next: How to turn results into an improvement plan and begin working toward the Full Seal or a Mini Seal.

  Good news: The Self-Evaluation is free and immediately available to all districts.