Transforming Education through Technology and Innovation

"C1 has been pivotal in helping us innovate strategically, secure our systems, and build a future-ready school district.” 

Dr. Zachary Conrad | Executive Director, TIS & Data, Evaluation, Research, & Assessment, Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools

The Challenge:

Outdated Systems and Increasing Security Needs 

Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools faced several challenges stemming from outdated systems and tight budgets, which impeded their ability to modernize their infrastructure and enhance security. Key challenges included: 

Cybersecurity was a critical area for improvement, as the district faced ongoing threats to sensitive student and staff data. With the rise in sophisticated cyberattacks targeting educational institutions, KCPS required advanced tools for secure authentication and proactive threat detection and mitigation. These measures were essential to safeguarding the district's technology ecosystem and ensuring uninterrupted services.  

“Supporting such a large district with limited resources means constant prioritization and finding efficient solutions,” said Dr. Zachary Conrad, Executive Director of TIS and DERA. “Our focus has been on driving impactful change through strategic technology decisions.”  

These challenges highlighted the need for a trusted technology partner to support modernization efforts while balancing budgetary constraints.  

The Solution:

Strategic and Secure Tech Implementation 

To address their challenges, Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools collaborated with C1, leveraging their expertise in infrastructure, security, and technology innovation. C1 introduced VX Rail data centers for scalable, efficient infrastructure management, reducing the strain of maintaining outdated systems while improving data operations across all locations.  

On the cybersecurity front, KCPS adopted Rapid7, a C1 recommended solution, to secure their extensive networks and endpoints. This move enhanced monitoring, incident response, and protection against cyber threats. Additionally, C1 implemented Cisco Duo for identity security including multi-factor authentication (MFA) and facilitated Wi-Fi installation at bus transit centers, allowing for seamless data uploads and fleet management.  

C1 also provided critical support for the district move from Google to Microsoft 365 licensing, ensuring streamlined management, compliance, and cost-effective solutions tailored to KCPS’s needs. By optimizing their Microsoft 365 environment, KCPS gained access to an integrated suite of cloud-based tools that enhanced collaboration, improved communication, and increased productivity across departments. The district benefited from simplified licensing processes, proactive scalability, and support from C1, enabling a stronger focus on educational priorities rather than administrative complexities.

“C1 consistently shows us the latest technologies and how they can deliver meaningful results,” shared Dr. Conrad. “Their team doesn’t just sell solutions; they take the time to understand our needs and collaborate on what works best for us.”  

The Result:

Enhanced Security, Stability, and Innovation    

The partnership with C1 has delivered measurable improvements across Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools. The deployment of Rapid7 bolstered the district’s cybersecurity infrastructure, enabling efficient monitoring of 35,000 endpoints and swift incident response. This has significantly reduced security vulnerabilities while ensuring network reliability for students, staff, and administrators.  

C1 enabled secure, reliable connectivity that transformed KCPS’s bus fleet operations. By leveraging this technology, the district’s buses now efficiently upload data every night, ensuring timely updates for logistics, maintenance, and route optimization. These solutions collectively empowered KCPS to focus on delivering innovative educational experiences while maintaining operational excellence.  

Beyond technology, C1’s ongoing partnership during critical moments, such as assisting with flooding incidents and facilitating discussions with other municipalities, has proven instrumental in creating a well-rounded, collaborative approach to school district operations.  

Looking ahead, C1’s advisory role is extending to conversations around implementing AI-driven solutions, such as digital human translation avatars, to better serve the district’s multilingual families.

“Our collaboration with C1 has helped us move from transactional IT fixes to strategic, relationship-driven innovation,” said Dr. Conrad. “We are better equipped to deliver a future-ready education experience for all students.”