Intellectual Property for Schools

Overview

Properly handling IP considerations allows school districts to access resources, protect assets, and comply with law. Our intellectual property attorneys advise K-12 school districts on navigating the myriad IP issues that arise in public education. With deep experience with districts of all sizes, we assist with managing complex copyright, trademark, and other IP matters across curricula, digital learning platforms, brand management, student works, and more.

We help education clients with the following:

Copyright:
- Understanding the contours of Fair Use and when it comes into play
- Using public domain works and open educational resources
- Evaluating the impact of the TEACH Act
- Copyright ownership over curricula and staff-created works
- Developing student policies on proper IP use in their works
- Addressing unauthorized sharing of copyrighted materials online
Trademark:
- Clearance searches when adopting new district or school names, slogans, mascots
- Filing and maintaining registrations on key trademarks
- Enforcing rights against confusingly similar marks or branding
Trade Secrets:
- Identifying proprietary curricula, processes, data that could qualify for protection
- Implementing policies and protocols to maintain confidentiality
- Drafting non-disclosure agreements with vendors and partners
IP Disputes:
- Responding to cease & desist letters or claims of infringement
- Investigating potential misuse of district intellectual property
- Pursuing resolutions when disputes arise over copyright, trademarks
- Defending districts against excessive or frivolous allegations