Safe Schools

Regardless of whether or not a student identification system is in place, visitor identification should be mandatory in all schools. In addition to regulating visitor access to the school building, visitors should be required to wear a clearly visible identification tag at all times while on school premises.For a personnel identification system to be effective, it is important that administrative per­sonnel, receptionists, teachers, and others in the building carefully observe whether or not all personnel are wearing the appropriate badges. Adult identification cards are also helpful in identifying central office staff, employees from other schools, contract employees, substitute staff, and other individuals not normally assigned to a particular school. Adult and student identification systems require regular and consistent enforcement, with clear consequences and costs for those who fail to wear the badges.

Badge design should take into consideration that the primary purpose of a identification system is to control access to specific areas by alerting school personnel of the presence of unautho­rized individuals on the campus. Bold print, large and recent photographs, a distinctive design, and tamper-resistant structure are prime considerations. It is recommended that badges for students, visitors, and personnel be clipped-on and not be attached to a long chord, chain, or string, which can become a hazard. 

Implementing a Personnel Identification System

An improved sense of overall security should begin to emerge within the school culture once both an employee badging program and a visitor identifica­tion badging program have been implemented. As a result, there will be an increase in the number of personnel who feel that they have a responsibility and right to challenge anyone in the building not wearing an official visitor’s badge. Since an identifica­tion badging program calls for a number of procedures to be considered prior to full implementation, a checklist has been provided below to assist principals in their efforts to design a school employee identification program.

(See Checklist for School Employee Identification Program)

The bottom line for identification systems is to establish the program properly and maintain it consistently. Operational and en­forcement logistics should be thoroughly discussed before seriously taking steps to implement such programs. Exhibit 1-1.21,  provides a policy statement for the establishment of a school employee badge program.