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Wells Branch MUD adopts covered-apps ban on district devices, approves network and 2FA purchases
Summary
The Board adopted a Covered Applications and Prohibited Technology Policy (targeting TikTok and similar covered apps on District‑issued equipment) and approved purchases of 10 network switches (up to $22,000) and hardware two‑factor authentication tokens (up to $5,500) to support security and resiliency.
The Wells Branch Board on Nov. 19 adopted the Covered Applications and Prohibited Technology Policy developed to comply with state law restricting certain covered social media apps on district‑issued equipment.
IT Manager Chris Donnelly told the Board the policy will prevent installation or use of enumerated covered applications on District devices and allow IT to remotely remove or block these apps. The Board approved the policy unanimously on a motion by Director Kevin Ward and second by Director Betsey Harper.
Donnelly also presented two budgeted IT purchases: replacement of 10 network switches (Meraki models) to increase resiliency and integrate with the district’s firewall architecture, not to exceed $22,000; and hardware tokens for two‑factor authentication for staff without district-issued cell phones, not to exceed $5,500. Both purchases were approved unanimously and were included in the FY2025 budget lines (automation/equipment support).
"Hardware tokens are small keychain-sized devices that generate codes for signing in to Office365 without needing a cell phone," Donnelly explained. Staff said the switch replacements will be implemented in early 2025 and tokens distributed before they are required for login.
The new policy and hardware purchases are part of an IT plan to harden network security and ensure compliance with state guidance on covered applications.
