Published: January 31, 2008 05:59 pm      

New ID checks begin Friday

Names will be cross-referenced with sex offender lists

A new check-in procedure for visitors goes into effect Friday at all Cleburne ISD schools. Administrators believe the procedure will enhance school safety and security.

All visitors must present a valid driver’s license or state-issued photo ID, which will be scanned by office personnel.

The scanner uses a Web-based software application to connect to multiple sex offender databases nationwide.

The purchase and implementation of the Raptor Technology V-soft information and tracking system was approved by the CISD school board in November.

“Letters were sent home with students right after we returned from the Christmas holidays advising parents of this new program and its purpose and the date of its implementation,” said Dr. Sharron Miles, executive director of special projects, who oversees the district’s safety and security program. “When parents or visitors check in at the office or when parents come in to pick up their child, they will be asked to present a valid, state-issued ID, which we will enter into our new safety information system.

“This system has the ability to provide alerts on people who may jeopardize the safety of a campus. We feel this is one more way we can offer a safe, more monitored environment for our students and staff.”

The data strip on the back of the driver’s license or state-issued photo ID will be read by the software program, which will also print out a dated paper name tag with an imprint of the visitor’s photo, to be worn while on the campus.

Several CISD campuses have been trying out the new software since its installation in preparation for Friday’s official start.

“I like the name tags the system provides because it tells me the visitor’s name and the purpose of their visit,” said Dr. Lylia King, principal at Smith Middle School. “This allows us to greet the visitor or parent by name and also to guide them to the correct area of the school.

“I think this is a benefit to the school district. It will assist with school safety but will also help us, as school members, be of more assistance.”

The new software comes with a variety of options, including private alerts relating to custody or restraining orders or individuals who have been banned from admittance on the campus. Expanded tracking capabilities of the program can assist school staff with record keeping relating to student tardies and volunteer hours.

The multiple-alert feature of the system will allow school administrators and law enforcement to share information relating to sex offender alerts.