Oconomowoc H.S. to do background checks on visitors

OCONOMOWOC (WITI) -- Oconomowoc High School is introducing new security measures to keep criminals out of the building. The changes will be implemented throughout the coming weeks.

Principal Joseph Moylan changed the school's entry policy last year, requiring visitors to be buzzed in and enter through the main office. Now, new measures will be added.

"Using a software check-in system that does a background check on people looking to gain access to the building is really a measure that's reasonable," said Moylan.

The district is spending $1,800 to purchase the "Raptor" program -- which allows any adult wishing to enter the school to scan their driver's license. The program will then alert staff members if volunteers, or even parents, have a criminal background.

The school says the goal is to keep sex offenders, and anyone with a background of assault, out of the building.

"It also does it instantly. We don't have to take the ID while the person is sitting there, type it in and get their entire background," explained Moylan.

In April of 2012, a parent-volunteer at Summit Elementary in Oconomowoc allegedly touched a young girl inappropriately while reading books together. Moylan says the program isn't a response to that incident, but believes it's one reason "Raptor" is necessary.

The software license will need to be renewed every year, which will cost the district $480 annually.