New student ID to resemble debit card

Students will receive new identification cards in August. The cards will combine the current functionality of access to college facilities, such as computer labs, with the ability to load money on them to purchase items from the various stores on campus. In addition, if a student chooses to, the new cards may also be set up as a debit card. Image courtesy of Laura Radke.

The Student Senate voted for the new student identification (ID) card design on March 9, but the design isn’t the only renovation the card is undergoing.

Much like the already existing CavCard, the new ID will feature a magnetic strip and will allow students to load money.

“The CavCard can be used on campus for coffee, dining areas and the bookstore. Then you have the student ID card to get into labs, gym, etc.,” said Laura Radke, system specialist, Information Services.

“The new student ID exhibits the functionality
available with the CavCard along with the functionality available with the student ID. It just combines them into one card,” Radke said.
Students will be able to add money to the new ID’s online or at any cash register on campus. The ID can also serve as a personal identification number (P.I.N.) protected debit card.

“There is a partnership with U.S. Bank, which will turn [the student ID] into a personal ATM/debit card,” Radke said.

Though the bank will be directly involved
with the new ID program, the two parties will not be involved in a banking relationship.
“The school will not be involved in that banking relationship. The account would be through U.S. Bank, which then gives you the option of having a separate Visa card,” Radke said.

There is no obligation to load money onto the ID card, but it is an option. Signing up for the U.S. Bank account is also optional and serves as a way for students who do not have a bank account to get one.

“When you get your student ID there will be no banking relationship until the point in time when you choose to activate the banking relationship,” said Pam Vassar, director, Student Life.

“You can continue to utilize the student ID by loading money onto it and using it much like you would the CavCard at the bookstore, food service areas, Java Jazz, and to pay tuition. But that wouldn’t necessitate signing up for the U.S. Bank account.” The application for signing up for the U.S. Bank partnership is available on campus or at U.S. Bank.

Because the ID is a P.I.N. debit, it will not allow anyone to spend funds they do not have. There is also overdraft protection available through U.S. Bank.

“I think the new student ID will be more convenient and safe for students,” said Briseida Olivas, student-employee. “Because
the picture is on the card, there will be no need to check for ID and there is no way someone else could use your card.”

The CavCard will still be available at cash registers around campus and can still be used at food services and the bookstore, but will be more of a gift card for students and staff.
The college expects the new student ID will be ready to distribute by mid-May.

Contact, Ryan Koenig, reporter, rkoenig@stumail.jccc.edu.