Cybersecurity Instructor | Cyber Academy of Excellence @ RCTCM

Hello! I'm Ms. Datinya Caviness, and I’m honored to be your Introduction to Cybersecurity Instructor here at the Cyber Academy of Excellence. With over 24 years of experience in education—from early childhood classrooms to university lecture halls—I’ve had the privilege of helping students grow at every stage of their learning journey.

Before stepping into the world of cybersecurity, I served in a variety of roles: Media Specialist, Curriculum Specialist, Associate Professor of Media, and Statistical Data Analyst. Each of these positions helped shape my understanding of how technology and education intersect—and how critical it is to prepare students for the digital world.

I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Policy and Early Childhood Education, a Master’s Degree in Science & Technology, and a Education Specialist Degree in Education Administration. 

 I’ve also earned a certificate from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Infrastructure Security Agency, focusing on cybersecurity practices and industrial control systems.

My approach to teaching is simple: lead with curiosity, connect learning to the real world, and create an environment where students feel empowered to think critically and creatively. One quote that inspires me every day is by Albert Einstein: “I am only passionately curious.” That curiosity is what I aim to spark in my students.

In this course, we’ll explore more than just cybersecurity tools and techniques—we’ll build skills that matter in every aspect of life: communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership.

My Mission

To inspire students to graduate with confidence, explore their passions, and prepare for successful, meaningful careers in cybersecurity and the global technology workforce.

A Few Things I Love

🌍 Travel
🔍 Deep Dive Research
✍🏽 Creative Writing
🥾 Hiking and Exploring Nature
💃 Salsa Dancing
🧠 Mentoring young minds