Pascagoula-Gautier School District

The Pascagoula-Gautier School District (PGSD) is a public educational institution serving the communities of Pascagoula and Gautier in Mississippi, United States. As a school district, PGSD is responsible for providing primary and secondary education to students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. The district operates a variety of schools, including elementary, middle, and high schools, that deliver state-mandated curricula alongside elective courses and special programs. PGSD employs certified teachers, administrators, and support staff to facilitate learning and ensure the academic development of its students. In addition to classroom instruction, the district offers extracurricular activities such as athletics, arts, and clubs to support a well-rounded educational experience.

PGSD plays a vital role in the region by educating a large portion of the youth in the Pascagoula and Gautier area. The district's schools are integral to the community, often serving as centers for local events and adult education programs. With a commitment to inclusive education, PGSD provides services for students with diverse needs, including those requiring special education, English language support, and gifted and talented programs. The district also collaborates with local businesses and organizations to offer career and technical education pathways, preparing students for post-secondary success. Through these efforts, PGSD contributes to the social and economic development of the region.

In October 2020, PGSD became the target of a sophisticated ransomware attack by the DoppelPaymer cybercriminal group. The attackers compromised a server containing student data, including names, contact information, grades, and disciplinary records, as well as employee data with full Social Security numbers, salary, and benefits information. Although investigators could not confirm whether data was exfiltrated prior to the attack, the perpetrators later publicly released extensive files, exposing sensitive personal information of thousands of students and staff. Notably, the district did not pay the ransom, and financial and nutrition records remained secure. This incident highlighted the vulnerability of educational institutions to cyber threats and underscored the importance of robust cybersecurity measures to protect confidential information.

As a public school district, PGSD is governed by an elected board of trustees that sets policy and oversees district operations. The district receives funding from local property taxes, state allocations, and federal grants, which support its educational programs and facility maintenance. PGSD operates under the authority of the Mississippi Department of Education and must comply with state and federal regulations regarding curriculum, student safety, and data privacy. The district's leadership includes a superintendent who manages day-to-day administration and implements board directives. This structure ensures accountability and community involvement in the district's decision-making processes.