Technology update: district plans two‑factor authentication and tighter rules for personal devices and recordings

Prince Edward County’s technology staff presented proposed updates to the division’s Technology Use Guidelines, highlighting three primary changes: a requirement that all staff enable two‑factor authentication for email and supported systems, a new approval process for staff personal devices, and language prohibiting students from recording teachers or peers without consent.

The technology supervisor told the board two‑factor authentication will be implemented using methods such as Microsoft Authenticator or text‑based codes and said the change is intended to reduce phishing risk and help protect sensitive data. Staff will require approval from the technology department before bringing personal devices (for example, laptops or printers) onto the district network so the technology team can ensure up‑to‑date antivirus and security settings.

The draft also strengthens enforcement language: students are not allowed to record teachers or peers without consent and may not bypass network security by using staff or administrator credentials. The updates restructure and clarify existing sections for readability; the technology presenter said the division will add two‑factor for both Microsoft and Google systems and encourage staff to use the Microsoft Authenticator app.

Board members asked about the specific two‑factor method; the presenter said they would roll out an additional step such as a phone verification or Authenticator app and that an alternate hardware token could be provided for those without phone access. The update was presented for first reading and additional policy reviews are planned.