High-Tech School Security Runs Background Check on Visitors

Source: Fox 29
04-02-2008

A new high-tech scanner helps keep students and teachers safe at some South Jersey high schools.  The computerized school security device is now online at four high schools in the Lenape School District and it's getting some pretty good reviews.

It's an innovative security tool used to keep intruders and sex offenders out of schools.  It looks like an ATM, but it's really the latest high tech checkpoint to protect students and teachers.

"Number one is safety and security," said Lenape Principal Anthony Cattani.  "It's been a positive means of making sure this building is safe and secure."

It's called "Lobby Guard," a stand-alone device that does everything from taking school visitors pictures to running an instant background check on the National Sex Offenders Registry.

"If there were a match, we have procedures and protocols we will follow to address that," according to Len Iannelli, Director of Special Services.

The lobby guard kiosk is set up in the foyer or main office of each high school. Before a visitor can enter they must type in their name or provide id.  A photo is taken, the visitors background is check within 30-60 seconds and they are  registered into a computer.

"If they're permitted to enter the building, then a pass is printed out behind the machine and then our secretary Mrs. Levandoski directs that person and gives the pass to a specific location they're allowed to go in the building and gives directions," Cattani said.

In addition to the various security safeguards, the system can also check a visitors name against a list of individuals that officials want kept out of the school.

The lobby guard system also notes where visitors are in the building and checks them out when they leave.

"They must come back with the pass and scan the pass. So we know who is in the building and who is out of the building and exactly at what times," Cattani explained.

Lobby guard is now in place at Lenape, Cherokee, Seneca and Shawnee high schools. Eventually authorities hope to have it in place at other schools.

By Dave Schratwieser

View Story