June 19th, 2026

As a part of the Waterloo Region District School Board’s (WRDSB) ongoing efforts to support the privacy and cybersecurity infrastructure for students and staff, we would like to share an update about changes that may impact students.

As of July 1, 2026 the Information Technology Services (ITS) Department will be bringing in a number of changes that aim to:

  • Strengthen cybersecurity
  • Protect student and staff information
  • Support the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI)

Upcoming Changes – Effective July 1, 2026

The changes coming on July 1, 2026 include:

  • WRDSB-approved AI tools only on WRDSB networks
  • WRDSB-managed Chromebook sign-in controls
  • Reducing risks with browser extensions

Learn more about each of these changes below.

WRDSB-Approved AI Tools Only

Access to unsupported third-party AI tools on the WRDSB network will be restricted.

Grade 7 to 12 students are required to only use WRDSB-supported AI tools, including Google Gemini and NotebookLM. Students must access them through their WRDSB accounts. This change does not alter the WRDSB’s existing GenAI expectations, outlined in the GenAI Student Guidelines.

WRDSB-Managed Chromebook Sign-in Controls

Guest Mode will be disabled on WRDSB-managed Chromebooks. WRDSB will also restrict sign-in on WRDSB-managed Chromebooks to WRDSB accounts only. Personal or external accounts, such as Gmail, Outlook, or other non-WRDSB accounts, will not be permitted on WRDSB-managed Chromebooks.

Once signed into the Chromebook with a WRDSB account, users may still access personal email or other personal web-based services through the browser, where appropriate and in accordance with WRDSB expectations.

Steps for Students

Any work files stored outside WRDSB-managed accounts should be moved to appropriate WRDSB-approved storage locations before July 1, 2026.

Browser Extensions

WRDSB will move toward an approved extension model to reduce privacy, security, and data access risks. Only approved extensions will be made available.

This applies to browser extensions used on WRDSB-managed devices and within WRDSB-managed internet browsers.

Questions?

  • Students, parents, families and caregivers are encouraged to connect with their teacher for more information.
  • Troubleshooting information is available on the Tech@Home website.