Visitor Management System

WSSB does many things to protect the many people within our buildings. Secure entrances, security cameras, mental health support and positive behavior training are just a few of the many ways that we work to keep everyone safe.

This fall, we’re adding another safety practice to our agency and school: a digital visitor management system. This system will help us keep everyone safe and streamline the check-in process. It also will help us be aware of everyone in our buildings so that we can account for them in the event of an emergency.

All short-term visitors will use the new system. This includes families, volunteers, community partners, contractors and vendors. Visitors will be asked to show a driver’s license or government-issued ID to the office staff. The office staff person will quickly scan the ID into the system, which will look at the name, date of birth, photo and last four digits of the ID for comparison with a national database of registered sex offenders. It will not save other information from the ID or make a copy of the physical ID. Once visitors are entered in the system, they can scan their own ID at the school or administration building in the future.

We welcome all visitors. If you do not have identification, please let the office staff know that you would like to sign in. Staff members can assist you and answer questions. The check-in process is not necessary if you are simply dropping off or picking up items from the office.

Thank you in advance for your participation and support of our safety efforts. You are an important part of our community. We look forward to welcoming you to WSSB!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is WSSB using this system?

Safety is a top priority for WSSB, and we need to be vigilant about who enters our campus. The new system will help us screen and monitor the people who visit our campus, which is considered a best practice for safety. Our goal is to know who is in our buildings while also maintaining a welcoming, inclusive environment.

When will WSSB begin using it?

We will begin using the system in October 2019 and continue using it throughout the year.

How does it work?

All short-term visitors will use the new system. This includes families, volunteers, community partners, contractors and vendors. Visitors will be asked to show a driver’s license or government-issued ID to the office staff. The office staff person will quickly scan the ID into the system, which will look at the name, date of birth, photo and last four digits of the ID for comparison with a national database of registered sex offenders. It will not save other information from the ID or make a copy of the physical ID. Once visitors are entered in the system, they can scan their own ID in the future.

Staff will return IDs after the initial scan.

What will the system check?

The system will help ensure that registered sex offenders do not enter our buildings as short-term visitors. Volunteers, who are on our campus for longer periods of time and often work directly with students, will undergo a more extensive criminal history background check prior to receiving approval to volunteer. They also will provide identification when they check in at WSSB.

Will it check for legal residency in the U.S.?

No, the system will not check for legal residency.

Why are my name, photo, date of birth and last four ID digits required?

Because many people have the same name or date of birth, this information is necessary to run a check against the national database of registered sex offenders.

What if the system produces a false result?

Staff members will work to clear up any false results and correctly verify the identity of the visitor, if they are not already known to the staff.

What information will the system store?

The system will store name, date of birth, photo and last four digits of the ID for comparison with a national database of registered sex offenders. It will not save other information from the ID.

Who will store my information, how long is it stored and where will it be stored?

A security company will store the information on its secure, encrypted servers. Neither WSSB nor the company will sell or share your information. It will be stored until WSSB requests that it be deleted. If WSSB discontinues the use of the visitor and volunteer management system, the district can request that the company destroy all data collected from visitors.

What if I don’t have or want to provide a driver’s license or government-issued ID?

You are still welcome to visit the school. Please let the staff know that you need assistance checking in. A staff member will escort you during your time in the school.

Will law enforcement or government officials be notified of visitors and volunteers?

No. The system does not send information to other entities such as Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, police, Department of Motor Vehicles, etc.

Who can I contact if I have additional questions?

Please contact safety staff at 360-696-6321 or Anne Baker – anne.baker@wssb.wa.gov