Overton County Schools has added an extra layer of security to its online student forms system, requiring multi-factor authentication for all accounts.
Overton County Schools Athletic Director Lesley Riddle said the new feature rolled out on Wednesday and requires users to verify their login through a second step, typically by clicking a link sent to their email or through a text message. Riddle said the move is aimed at better protecting sensitive student-athlete information as families begin submitting paperwork for the upcoming school year.
“Parents are putting in a lot of information,” Riddle said. “I mean, there’s a lot of demographic information. There’s a lot of health information. And we just don’t want that to get into the wrong hands or into each other’s hands, because basically it’s nobody’s business, but theirs. And we just need to know what we need to know to keep those student athletes healthy as they get into their sport.”
Riddle said Overton Schools had previously attempted to introduce the feature during the fall but delayed implementation after some early confusion. While the extra step may seem like an inconvenience, Riddle said it is simple for parents to use.
“It’s one more click,” Riddle said. “You click to get into final forms, just like you always did. And then it sends that link to your email, and you just click that second time in your email, and then it opens it up for you. But you will have to do it every single time. And I’m doing that as well, but we want to keep this information secure. So that’s the whole purpose behind it.”
Riddle said dozens of students have already begun submitting forms on the first day. Riddle said the new feature has gone smoothly.
“I haven’t had a single question about the multi-factor authentication at all,” Riddle said.
In addition to the new security feature, Riddle said families are encouraged to complete required forms as soon as possible, especially for students planning to participate in fall sports. Those forms include physicals, concussion awareness paperwork, and other required documentation.
Riddle said the district is available to assist families who may need help navigating the system. Riddle also said that if a student is interested in trying out for a sport, they need to add themselves to that sport and fill out the needed forms.