What is the Trusted Learning Environment (TLE) Seal?

K–12 districts are adopting more digital platforms than ever, including learning management systems, online assessments, third-party apps, and cloud storage. While these tools enhance learning, they also raise an urgent question for families and school boards alike: How safe is our student data?

Why the Trusted Learning Environment (TLE) Seal Matters Now

CoSN’s Trusted Learning Environment (TLE) Seal provides a clear answer. It’s a nationally recognized program that signals to parents, educators, and communities that a school system has developed mature practices for student data privacy. Beyond compliance, the Seal represents a district’s ongoing commitment to transparency, accountability, and trust.

Inside the Podcast

In this CoSN podcast episode, you’ll learn what the TLE Seal is, why it matters, and how it’s transforming the way districts think about student data privacy.

The conversation covers:

• The five practice areas the Seal requires: Leadership, Business, Data Security, Professional Development, and Classroom.

• The importance of continuous improvement, since privacy practices must evolve alongside new laws and technologies.

• The Mini Seal option, which allows districts to begin with one practice area, such as Data Security, before pursuing the full Seal.

• The impact: Seal recipients are already improving protections for over 1.2 million students nationwide, while also earning credibility and building trust with families.

Key Takeaways

• Trust Signal: The Seal is both a safeguard and a visible assurance to families.

• Continuous Growth: Privacy practices evolve with technology—earning the Seal means ongoing improvement.

• Flexible Path: Districts can start with a Mini Seal or aim directly for the full Seal.

• Impact: More than 1.3 million students are already protected through Seal-recognized practices.

How to Get Started

Districts interested in the TLE Seal can begin by:

1. Reviewing the TLE Seal Application to understand the requirements.

2. Exploring Mini Seal applications to build momentum one practice area at a time.

3. Visiting CoSN.org to read success stories and learn how other districts have implemented the Seal.

Learn More About the Trusted Learning Environment (TLE) Seal

Visit the CoSN Trusted Learning Environment page to explore the application, access resources, and begin your district’s journey toward building a more trusted digital future.

Meet the TLE Recipients

Trusted Learning Environment Resources

Trusted Learning Environment FAQs

Full Seal Applications

• TLE Seal for Districts

• TLE Seal for SEAs / ESAs / COEs

Mini Seal Applications

• Leadership Practice

• Business Practice

• Data Security Practice

• Professional Development Practice

• Classroom Practice

Renewal Options

• Renew your TLE District Seal to demonstrate continued commitment and improvement.

Explore all applications and resources at the CoSN Trusted Learning Environment page.

 

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