Digital Sovereignty in Schools: A Case Study
Austrian Gymnasium Successfully Transitions to mailbox.org
Digital sovereignty and data protection in schools are no longer mere aspirations for the future. The case of Gymnasium and ORG Dachsberg in Austria demonstrates how transitioning to a GDPR-compliant IT infrastructure can successfully unite data protection with digital self-determination in education. Following their move away from Google, approximately 900 students and 100 teachers now communicate via mailbox.org services. A success story that could be a textbook example for others.
Protecting Student Data: A Necessity
Daily school operations involve the exchange of confidential information via email—from discussions about grades and medical reports to individual learning support requirements. This prompted Thomas Krupa, the school's IT administrator, to seek a solution that would ensure compliance with data protection regulations.
"We sought a communication tool that would maintain data privacy and prevent sensitive information from being handed over to large corporations that might exploit it for advertising and personal profiling," Krupa explains.
“Unlike big tech giants, mailbox.org does not engage in surveillance capitalism. This considerably reduces students' digital footprint."
Thomas Krupa, IT administrator Gymnasium Dachsberg
Technical Expertise Meets Data Protection
When searching for a suitable alternative, mailbox.org distinguished itself for several reasons. The provider's technical expertise, positive user testimonials, and its status as a GDPR-compliant, German-based service ultimately proved decisive. Key technical considerations included the ability to retain existing email addresses, API-supported migration, and a flexible webmail interface with IMAP support.
“Unlike big tech giants, mailbox.org does not engage in surveillance capitalism. This considerably reduces students' digital footprint," says Krupa, emphasising that this philosophy was the determining factor behind the school's transition—a tailored solution for educational institutions with stringent data protection requirements.
Gaining Acceptance: Training as a Success Factor
Although Krupa was swiftly convinced of mailbox.org's advantages, he initially faced the task of winning over the school community. "There wasn't full awareness of the issue at first," he recalls. To address this, he developed a comprehensive training programme: teachers and students received in-person training sessions, video tutorials, and specialised courses. These proactive measures proved successful—initial concerns have since dissipated. "One reason for that, of course, is that everything functions smoothly," Krupa adds with a slight smile.
A Seamless Technical Transition
Krupa worked closely with mailbox.org's experts to ensure a well-prepared transition. Following the placement of the order in summer 2023, the school conducted a structured testing phase, verifying API integration and gradually establishing accounts. The final migration on 1 November 2023 was executed without complication.
One Year On: A Positive Outcome
More than a year after the migration, the new system has firmly established itself in everyday school life. Both teachers and students appreciate its reliability and the newfound digital autonomy. Would Krupa make the same decision today? "Without a doubt," he responds promptly.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
Investing in data protection and digital sovereignty has proven worthwhile for Gymnasium Dachsberg. While the transition required financial investment, the long-term benefits considerably outweigh the costs. The school serves as an exemplary model of how educational institutions can successfully implement data protection and digital self-determination. Gymnasium Dachsberg now stands as an inspiration for other schools considering similar steps towards greater digital sovereignty.
About Gymnasium and ORG Dachsberg
Gymnasium Dachsberg is a Roman Catholic private school situated in the former Dachsberg Castle in Prambachkirchen, Upper Austria. Founded in 1920, it offers both a modern language-focused secondary school and an upper secondary school with a scientific focus. Currently, approximately 900 students are taught by around 100 teachers. The school places significant emphasis on a well-rounded education, incorporating traditional subjects alongside ecological education and democratic values.
What Gymnasium Dachsberg Values Most About mailbox.org
- Data protection & GDPR compliance
- Independence from US-based corporations
- Enhanced security for student & teacher data
- Seamless migration & retention of email addresses
- Automated account management via API
- Flexible use via webmail & IMAP
- Integrated calendar & groupware functions
- Comprehensive documentation & support
- Sustainable & ethical IT strategy
- Long-term control over the school's IT infrastructure
About Gymnasium and ORG Dachsberg
Gymnasium Dachsberg is a Roman Catholic private school situated in the former Dachsberg Castle in Prambachkirchen, Upper Austria. Founded in 1920, it offers both a modern language-focused secondary school and an upper secondary school with a scientific focus. Currently, approximately 900 students are taught by around 100 teachers. The school places significant emphasis on a well-rounded education, incorporating traditional subjects alongside ecological education and democratic values.