Our school cafeteria has implemented a biometric finger scanning identification system for meal service. This has been identified as a way to provide accurate student identification as well as security for our student accounts. We want to eliminate clerical errors and provide an easy and accurate way to identify students and be sure no one else can charge items to their accounts. Additionally, this quick and efficient manner helps lines move faster, providing more time for students to eat. Students will need to have fingers scanned initially in order to begin using this system, which had been put on hold during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many students were previously scanned prior to the start of the pandemic, but for those who are new to this process, it will take place during the first few weeks of school. Until the finger scanning implementation is set up for your child, student ID numbers or ID cards issued at the school will be used to obtain lunches. If you have questions that can't be answered by the information below, please feel free to contact Lori McCoy, Food Services Director, at 610-834-1670, ext. 8205, or at lmccoy@colonialsd.org.

What is Biometric Identification?

Biometric identification is an automated method of identifying a person based upon physical or behavioral characteristics. Our school has selected the identiMetrics Biometric Finger Scanning Identification System because it is secure, accurate, cost-effective and non-intrusive.

How does finger scanning identification work?

Using a finger scanner, the software scans certain unique points on the finger to create and store individual templates that identify each student. When the student returns, the software again scans the finger and looks for a match in the database. When a match is found, the student is identified.

What about our students’ privacy?

We are not fingerprinting the students. The software scans the finger for identification. It does not store a copy of the fingerprints. Instead, the software creates a template of the unique points on the finger. The template is converted to a unique number and is stored in the school’s database with the same high level of security of all of our records. The templates are also protected by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). FERPA is the same Federal Law that protects all student records. When your child graduates or is no longer enrolled in the school system, the templates are deleted. At no time is a fingerprint image stored. No fingerprints can be recreated or delivered to any agency - governmental or otherwise.

What if I want to opt out?

If you do not want your child to participate, you may opt out by contacting the Food Service Department via email at lmccoy@colonialsd.org with the subject line “Opt Out.” If you opt out, your child will still be able to eat with us, but will use an alternate method of obtaining lunches.