In this featured piece by Times Republican, the outlet reports that the Marshalltown Community School Board approved the purchase of Visitor Aware from Singlewire Software to screen visitors before they can enter district buildings. The $22,506.25 system will be funded by the Iowa Safety Grant, following a recommendation from a TetraTech security safety audit. Director of Technology Amy Harmsen explained that visitors will scan a government-issued ID or manually enter their information, undergo facial recognition, and receive approval from the building secretary before gaining access. The system also connects to InformaCast, which sends the building administrator a text or email alert if someone flagged by the system calls 911.
Key Takeaways
- The Marshalltown Community School Board approved the purchase of Visitor Aware from Singlewire funded by a $22,506.25 Iowa Safety Grant.
- Visitors scan a government-issued ID on an iPad or manually enter their information, undergo facial recognition, and receive approval from the building secretary before entering.
- Director of Technology Amy Harmsen said the system checks visitors against criminal background scans focused on sexual offenders, dangerous offenders, and custody issues.
- The system connects to InformaCast, which sends the building administrator a text or email alert if a flagged individual calls 911.
- Superintendent Therson Schutte said the system was the top recommendation from a TetraTech security safety audit and will give front office staff a greater sense of security.
Original Story
Before they gain physical entry, visitors of Marshalltown Community School District buildings will have to be approved by a new program.
It is an additional form of security for students and staff and was approved by the Marshalltown Community School Board during the regular meeting on Tuesday. Board members voted to purchase the Visitor Aware Singlewire system, a facial recognition program, and the $22,506.25 funding for the program will be provided by the Iowa Safety Grant.