A new security system for visitors was put into effect on October 1st, requiring visitors to scan a photo ID to enter the school. This system, called TPASS K12, is being implemented throughout Confluence due to a district-wide policy change, and is already in effect in the Kirkwood School District.

“The safety of our students is our top priority and this new visitor management system allows us to quickly identify all persons on our school grounds,” CEO of Confluence, Dr. Candice Carter Oliver said in an official email. 

The system is just one of several new security changes this year, some of which are less official than this new protocol.

“There’s a lot that we’re doing to help; even me standing out front, greeting people, is a security measure so we can screen that way, and we’ve been trying to stream people into the main office. What we do here, up front, is meant to keep things a little more safe for you,” high school Principal, Dr. Shane Hopper said. 

When someone visits the school, they will have to present a government ID. Their ID is then scanned by the system, and their name and date of birth are matched up with the national sex offender registry. Once entry is approved, a badge with the visitor’s name, date of birth, purpose of visit and their picture will be issued to them.

“I think it’s necessary and I think it’s effective,” said Bush.