Henrico County Public Schools will roll out new multifunctional ID cards for all 50,000 students when classes resume Aug. 19, expanding on a transportation pilot program from last year.

The cards, to be used by students from pre-K through 12th grade, will streamline several daily school activities. Students will use them to ride buses, check out library materials, purchase meals, use vending machines and access specific technology services.

“We are thrilled to see how these student ID cards will positively impact our 50,000 students across Henrico County Public Schools,” Superintendent Amy Cashwell said.

“These cards will boost our mission to provide a safe and productive school environment where all our students can thrive.”

The initiative follows a successful pilot run for bus transportation at elementary schools during the 2023-24 school year.

Officials emphasize that student data transmitted by the cards is encrypted and only accessible through Henrico Schools’ internal systems, addressing potential privacy concerns.

Upon return to school, students will receive their ID cards along with district-issued breakaway lanyards and protective sleeves. They will be required to wear the IDs visibly while on school grounds.

The use of ID cards for after-school activities will be phased in over time, beginning with varsity and junior varsity football games at high schools this fall.

To assist with the transition, the district has created an online resource page at henricoschools.us/page/student-id-cards.

This page includes frequently asked questions and will be updated as new issues or guidelines arise.

For more information about school safety, transportation, technology and other back- to-school matters, visit henricoschools.us.