When freshmen at Massapequa High School-Ames Campus head to college, one less aspect of college life will be unfamiliar to them — student IDs. The freshman class recently joined their Main Campus counterparts in wearing bright gold lanyards that securely hold their photo IDs, making it easier for staff to identify who is on school grounds. The safety initiative took effect at the Main Campus last year and expanded to the Ames Campus to get all high school stude
nts on board with the new protocol.
“We’re real positive about the increased level of security and the efficiency it brings to the day-to-day student operations,” said Ames Campus Principal Patrick DiClemente. “It’s low maintenance with high efficiency and that’s a winning combination.”
Noting that the Ames Campus is a safe, manageable environment for its 500 students, DiClemente pointed out that the IDs serve more to identify those who do not belong on campus, rather than those who do. Because of the bright color and visible ID compartment, staff can easily scan groups of students at a time. No incidents of outsiders entering the building have been reported.
In addition to safety, the IDs serve to increase efficiency in several ways. The IDs are equipped with a bar code, allowing students to use it as a library card at the school library, a meal card at lunchtime by pre-loading the card with funds, and bus pass credentials. It is also used for entry into certain activities or sporting events that occur beyond the school day.
If a student comes to school without his or her ID, a generic ID is issued that does not come with any other privileges other than to identify them as an Ames student.
Freshman Steven Caramelli said, “I think the IDs will be more useful next year when I am at the Main Campus,” noting the open campus privileges they have there. But added, “We need them to attend some sporting events such as the games against Farmingdale.”
Student Gianna Alvite enjoys the convenience of using the meal card for lunch, while Leah Johnston said she uses it for bus transportation.
“We continually look for ways to improve the safety and security of our learning environment for our students,” said Superintendent Lucille F. Iconis, “and we are pleased that our parents have responded so positively to this initiative and that our students, though some were reluctant at first, have warmed up to the change and understand its benefits.”
-Submitted by Massapequa Public Schools
