8 Perks of Showing Your College Student ID!

College is expensive – that’s an understatement, and there is no halt in sight for the growing cost of earning a degree. Many grads are closing their textbooks and entering the workforce with an average of $37,172 in student loan debt. Currently the total student loan debt across all demographics is $1.52 trillion! (Forbes.com). That’s difficult to comprehend. There are ways however, to keep debt under control while attending school. By taking advantage of student discounts and only borrowing funds to cover essentials like books and tuition, college kids can keep their debt from growing to an astronomical figure.

The student ID card has several innate perks. Not only does this little plastic ID card help students purchase meal plans on campus, check out books from the library and access school buildings, it can also help them save money at popular restaurants and retailers.

Most stores and restaurants don’t advertise their student discount, so kids looking to save money should never be too shy to ask.

The following are 8 perks students have access to if they just flash their student ID:

1. Discounts on food! What college kid doesn’t eat pizza, burritos and ice cream? Some of the most popular chains offer student discounts, including Chipotle, Papa Johns and Dairy Queen. Check out even more options here.

2. Savings on electronics and digital services. Favorites like Apple, Sprint and Adobe have student discount programs. Kids can get their course work done a little cheaper with savings like these!

3. Discounted oil changes and auto insurance. Not all college students live on campus. Commuters know the ongoing expense of maintaining a vehicle. Businesses like Jiffy Lube and Geico can help students save money on common car services and insurance.

4. Discounts at attractions and museums. Many courses require visits to art galleries, museums and the like. Rather than college kids taking on the full expense of gallery and museum visits to write papers and reports, they can take advantage of discounts.

5. Savings on travel. Most college students head home for the holidays, and for kids whose parents can’t cover the expense, there are often discounts offered on public transportation, rental cars and airfare. It never hurts to ask. Just have your student ID card on hand!

6. Movie night on the cheap! The pressure of college coursework and financial woes has been known to lead to anxiety and depression. Students can take a break from it all by seeing the latest blockbuster at their local AMC or Cinemark theater. Many theaters offer a break to students who show their college ID card.

7. Document copies and printing. Most college instructors require thesis papers, reports and other course work to be printed and bound. This cost can add up quickly throughout each semester. Students can save on prints and copies at stores like FedEx Office.

8. Shopping! Most students have a part time job to help make ends meet. Some of kids’ favorite stores can help stretch those meager earnings just a little further. Clothing stores like Banana Republic, J.Crew and Charlotte Russe are known to offer discounts. When it’s time for new clothes, kids should remember to flash their student ID at the checkout counter!

With the college debt crisis growing, it’s important for students to keep control of their finances. Parents can help instill financial responsibility in their kids before they head off to school, but students should also be made of aware of savings they have access to by simply showing their student ID card.

From food to oil changes to a new outfit, college kids can take care of their everyday needs AND save money. Many discounts are 10 to 20%, but some bookstores offer up to 50% off on subscriptions to important reads like the New York Times. These savings quickly add up and can help cut down on borrowed funds.

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At NameTagWizard.com, we’re the identification experts. Universities and colleges can save by bulk ordering ID cards and other forms of identification here. Our online design tool makes it easy to upload names, logos and photos. Ordering custom photo IDs is fast, simple and affordable for schools and businesses.

See more posts like this:

Protecting Students’ Right to Privacy

Flash Passes, Proximity Cards & Smart Cards

Sources:

https://www.bestcollegesonline.com/blog/100-stores-that-give-a-student-discount/

https://www.forbes.com/sites/zackfriedman/2018/06/13/student-loan-debt-statistics-2018/#3bd536707310

https://www.businessinsider.com/college-students-with-id-basically-eat-for-free-at-these-restaurants-2018-2

Protecting Students’ Right to Privacy

As schools are implementing new policies using student photo IDs and digital IDs, there is rising concern that students, parents, and school administrators may not be aware of how these new IDs could make private information accessible to others. The changes in ID use and advances in technology may significantly infringe on students’ privacy rights.

Many schools, from kindergartens to colleges, require that students and personnel wear some form of ID at all times. There are various types of IDs available, including photo IDs on lanyards or clips, cards with radio frequency identification chips (RFIDs), and wearable devices that replace physical badges.

It may seem like schools are simply updating their ID policies and security systems. Using photo IDs provides another layer of protection to help prevent strangers from intruding on school campuses. Digital IDs track who is in attendance and allow students to make various purchases, such as lunches or school supplies. But although new IDs offer convenience, students, parents, and teachers may feel less secure knowing the increase in potential risks.

When a chip is a necessity to students – allowing students to enter dorms or buy food in the cafeteria – some might consider privacy to be jeopardized.

Setting Limits

Schools now are able to gather extensive data about attendees. With new IDs, institutions have access to more student information, such as photo databases, attendance records, and students’ physical locations.  But how much information should schools be allowed to collect about students? Are enough safeguards in place to prevent schools from sharing this information with outside parties?

Some limitations for using new technology are already in place due to Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) laws. FERPA laws are designed to keep student information, such as educational records and other student information, private. These laws prohibit third parties from accessing student information.

However, educational institutions are still able disclose certain student information. Schools can disclose information that it deems “not harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed,” according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers.

Photo IDs

Student photos can be considered directory information, according to FERPA Guidance from the US Department of Education. A significant concern among parents is that directory information can be released to outside organizations without parental consent. Sharing this personal information is not considered an invasion of privacy.

Parents and students can choose to notify schools in writing that they wish to opt out of directory information disclosures. The question then becomes whether or not parents and students are aware that personal information may be shared. Are they aware that they have the right to opt out?

Online photo directories can pose problems as well. When student photos are used for IDs, images may be stored in an online directory. While school websites post policies regarding student photo ID usage, there is no guarantee that the policies will be upheld.

Additionally, even though there may be ways to further restrict privacy settings for these photos, students may overlook or not even realize that photos are part of an accessible directory.

Digital IDs

Apple recently developed student IDs that are part of wearable technology. These digital ID chips are stored in i Phones and Apple Watches. According to Edsurge.com, digital IDs will be used this fall at Duke University, the University of Oklahoma, and the University of Alabama.

With new ID technology, more information sharing is possible. The tracking used in RFID devices and wearable technology reveals specific student locations. Certain types of chips even have the capacity to gather information during times when students are not in class or even on campus.

The technological capabilities of digital IDs have even more potential for invasion of privacy. This type of data collection could be used to evaluate and predict student patterns and behaviors.  Some feel this closer look into students’ private lives is invasive, unwarranted, and even illegal.

Should every on-campus activity and location pattern be accessible to student institutions or technology companies developing these IDs? Or anyone else? Is an institution-imposed location or monitoring time limit enough to prevent schools – or third party technology developers – from accessing personal information regarding the physical location of each student?

Administrators, parents, and students may be unaware of how personal information could potentially be obtained when implementing new ID policies and procedures. While student safety may be the overarching goal for new photo policies and IDs with digital tracking, students’ rights to privacy and safety could be significantly threatened. Without the proper safeguards in place, photo database use and chip technology can be hazards to protecting student privacy and safety.

 

Resources:

https://www.edsurge.com/news/2018-06-06-apple-s-new-digital-student-ids-raise-questions-about-security
http://www.naceweb.org/public-policy-and-legal/legal-issues/ferpa-primer-the-basics-and-beyond/
https://www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/mndirectoryinfo.html

Should Students be Tracked with RFIDs? The Pros & Cons of Location Tracking

There is no debate over whether kids should be kept safe at school. With growing concerns of intruders, shootings, behavioral issues, children bringing weapons to school and other dangers, there is no doubt school districts have to find ways to protect students on campus. However, how far is too far when it comes to school safety precautions?

Some schools have already implemented the use of RFID tags, and the idea of tracking someone’s location is far from new, but should this technology be used to track your kids? This post will cover the pros, cons, ethical concerns and the potential health risks of using chips to track students at school.

First, what is a RFID tag? RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification Device. These chips can be placed in ID cards and clothing and they transmit a unique serial number via radio signal to an electronic reader at the school’s entrance.

What are the pros of using RFIDs to track kids at school?

  • Tracking students’ location on campus aids in safety, because teachers know whether a child has shown up to school or not.
  • Location tracking can save time each morning. Roll call is replaced by technology, which saves time for learning.
  • School funding is based on average daily attendance, and if a child is checked in with their RFID, they’re accounted for and the school will receive funds whether they are in their desk or not.
  • Location tracking can cut down on truancy. This technology makes it harder for kids to “fly under the radar.”

What are the cons of using tracking devices?

  • Many who oppose the use of RFIDs say that they treat kids like cattle, and that they’re unethical.
  • If the chips are not encrypted, it is easy to clone a card and impersonate a student, or to skip school by having a substitute card.
  • Where the use of radio frequency is pervasive, potential health risks are heightened.
  • Those who oppose student tracking say that it is all for financial gain, and that students are no more safe than they’ve ever been.

Some schools have gone as far as adding RFIDs to student clothing. Parents, administrators and other officials may argue that this is a good solution for smaller children, but for middle and high school students it is crossing an ethical line. Also, the tracking chips do not work off campus, they must be within readable distance, so once a child is no longer on campus, they’re not being tracked. For older kids who care about their privacy, this is good, but it has sparked debate about the validity of using RFIDs. Are they REALLY for safety, or for maintaining funding?

As far back as 2004, schools began using tracking chips. Although the use of RFIDs in schools is still uncommon, it’s not new technology and it may become more popular as school violence becomes more common. Many students are already being tracked academically and behaviorally with smartphone apps. As technology continues to quickly evolve, so will the potential loss of privacy. Do you support tracking chips being added to student ID cards?

Resources:
https://www.wired.com/2012/09/rfid-chip-student-monitoring/
https://www.texasmonthly.com/articles/can-schools-require-students-to-wear-tracking-chips/
http://www.teenink.com/opinion/school_college/article/612978/Problems-with-School-IDs/

How Student IDs Foster Identity Development & Esteem

The adolescent years are key in identity development, and as schools continue finding ways to keep kids safe, such as requiring them to wear IDs and uniforms, are they also inhibiting students’ growth into adulthood? Psychologist Erik Erikson stated that identity “enables one to move with purpose and direction through life.” The life skills that schools are looking to instill in our youth are often compromised by the need protect them from violence. How can administrators allow students to develop as individuals while also protecting their well being at school?

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Some schools have gotten creative with student IDs. As long as the ID photo is an accurate depiction of the student’s likeness, there is no reason why kids can’t express themselves. For example, a high school in Farmington Hills, Michigan has adopted a quirky tradition that allows kids to dress up in costumes for their ID pictures. Some students choose Harry Potter characters, while others throw it back to the 90s with iconic “Clueless” references. Regardless of each student’s take on humor, this tradition is both fun and safe! It empowers students to express themselves, to show their likes and hobbies, and also gives them a say in how they want to be identified.

https://mymodernmet.com/funny-school-id-pictures/

Most schools have award programs for good grades, community service and good attendance. These types of awards can be turned into pins or badges that are attached to the student’s ID card or lanyard. Kids who are succeeding in the classroom, on the court and field, or in their community can be recognized by their teachers and fellow students. This empowers kids to keep working toward their goals and it gives them a strong sense of self each time they put their ID card on.

Schools can create award systems with color codes for A/B honor roll, A honor roll, creativity, sportsmanship, community service and more! These merits can be represented by small pins or stickers that attach to the student’s ID card. To go even further, they can be turned in for cash credits that purchase lunch, books, supplies and more. There are many ways that institutions can get creative and encourage students to wear their ID cards.

Libraries, zoos, art museums and other local establishments can also get on board by offering student discounts. This keeps kids interested in learning and experiencing what their community has to offer. Discovering one’s surroundings and world is also a key part of identity development. When students are encouraged to venture out, they’re given a sense of independence and self-esteem that is vital for transition into adulthood.

Student IDs can also aid in creating relationships with staff and classmates. Healthy social interaction should also be taught in schools, and is a large part of succeeding in the job force. Student IDs help kids to identify one another by name, and can provide an ice breaker for conversation. Creative and funny ID card photos are even better, because they allow each student to feel unique and memorable. Photo IDs can foster healthy social interaction in schools! This goes well beyond providing a bland picture that is only intended to improve safety on campus.

There are many ways to allow students to thrive and grow, while also keeping them safe. Read our recent posts about tracking student success with QR code badges and the 3 main types of ID cards to gain insight into some of the latest trends in student identification.

How Student IDs are Being Used to Improve Learning and Behavior

As school starts back across the nation, parents, teachers and administrators are ready to implement their latest plans and teaching strategies to improve retention, behavior and safety. Safety is of growing concern in today’s schools. Initiatives like requiring clear book bags, student ID cards and strict dress codes are all commonly used to help keep students safe, but what NEW things are being done?

Student ID cards are generally worn in obligation and have somewhat of a negative reputation. However, new app-based programs being implemented across the U.S. are shedding a positive light on student IDs and student tracking. With a simple and easy-to-generate QR code, student IDs can be upgraded for use with smartphone apps that boost student engagement and crack down on bad behavior.

Upload Photo & QR Code for IDs Like This

Student Recognition and Reward Programs

Programs such as PBIS Rewards help teachers, students and parents stay on the same page about student learning and success. These types of school programs use QR codes that connect to profiles on smartphone apps. Students can earn points that can be used toward purchases and other types of rewards. PBIS and similar programs eliminate paper tickets and boost instructional time, while allowing teachers, kids and parents to see a clear representation of what is happening in the classroom. Students are more engaged and accountable in the learning process because they feel empowered to keep earning positive feedback.

 

https://www.pbisrewards.com/

 

Positive Behavior Reinforcement

Schools have also begun using apps to cut down on behavioral issues. Programs like Hero provide a convenient and measurable way to keep track of disciplinary actions, late arrivals, absences and can also aid in safety when a student is unaccounted for. These programs make classroom management easier and keep school offices more organized. They also provide a unified standard for student discipline so that each student feels he or she is treated equally. Hero can connect classes, schools and districts to one unified behavior management standard. This helps with positive reinforcement and with intervention. Administrators and parents can see clear trends in student behavior, both at an individual level and school level, and they can intervene before issues escalate.

Schools using programs like Hero have real data that shows them percentages of suspensions, late arrivals and more and they can watch these numbers decrease over time. Schools in 45 states are using Hero. Many other schools have adopted similar programs.

“Research has proven that when school culture is more positive, discipline-related issues decrease. At the same time, in-class instruction time grows and student performance thrives,” according to Hero. Ten and 15 years ago, students were expected to wear ID cards at school, but were not given an incentive to do so. New programs that work with simple QR codes on IDs are helping to encourage kids and keep them accountable.

Some schools may be hesitant to use programs that track student learning and behavior. Perhaps they are concerned with the ethical implications of tracking a student’s every move, they’re afraid of the cost of IDs and the accuracy of QR codes, or the programs themselves are too costly. Also, schools have had to crack down on cell phones in the classroom, which might inhibit some institutions from using programs like PBIS and Hero, however most classrooms offer instructional tablets. These programs can be used on those devices as well.

Tracking programs may not be the best option for some schools or teachers, but cost and technology shouldn’t be the deterrent. There are free behavioral and learning tracking apps online, such as Class Dojo. Stephanie Jones, a dedicated special needs teacher in Jacksonville, Florida swears by Class Dojo.

“It’s easy to use with their app as well as on the computer. Parents have access to view their points – positive and negative, so they know exactly what’s happening in the classroom. You can also update with “class stories” so parents can see what’s going on in your classroom, on field trips – whatever you want to show them,” says Mrs. Jones.

 

Moreover, for apps that work with QR codes, these codes can be easily generated online and are easy to print. They are more forgiving than barcodes because if they are damaged, they can still be scanned with a smart phone to connect to a website or app. There are many businesses that create and print ID cards with QR codes. Here at NameTagWizard.com, you can order fully customized photo IDs for students and employees. Reordering is quick and affordable, so updating IDs for a new school year can be done with just a couple of mouse clicks.

At NameTagWizard.com, we are the Identification Experts, and our sole purpose is to connect names with faces. As technology continues to evolve, we will be doing more than that! More recently, name tags and IDs are used to not only connect a person and their name, but also a person and their digital profile. Schools across the world will continue to grow and use tracking apps to keep kids safe and help them succeed. Our product line will also expand to include everything you need to identify students and employees in today’s digital world.

Flash Passes, Proximity Cards & Smart Cards to Improve School Safety

Security on school campuses is always of high importance, but it’s especially vital at the start of a new year. The beginning of the school year is the best time for parents, teachers and administrators to implement new rules and plans, and this is a key time to apply new safety regulations. Schools can aid in the prevention of school violence and school trespassing with the use of photo ID card policies. When students show up for orientation, they should be handed a photo ID and encouraged to wear it any time they are on campus. As school populations grow and technology becomes more advanced, it’s more challenging to keep kids and staff safe. Knowing which types of photo IDs are available and how they work are the first steps to creating and implementing a school photo ID policy.

 

There are 3 main types of ID cards that are used by colleges, schools and corporations. These are traditional photo ID cards, or flash passes, proximity cards and smart cards. Each card offers a different level of security and potential uses.

1.Traditional Flash Passes – These are traditional photo ID cards that contain the student or teacher’s name, photo and school mascot or logo. They are often called flash passes because they are quickly shown to security officers or patrol guards to gain access to campus or rooms. These types of IDs are beneficial because they help identify who is permitted to be on campus. They rely on human eyes however, and if a person can skip past a security guard, they can gain access to campus with no further measures taken. Although flash passes do not offer extra security, they are still commonly used by schools and can be used to increase safety. Traditional photo ID cards can provide security in the following ways:

  • Color coding: Each level of student and staff can wear a different color plastic card. At a glance this can help security officers and administrators identify between a teacher or other staff member, a student and their grade level (which often coincides with areas on campus the student should be), and a visitor. Be sure to offer visitors a temporary ID card that is a unique color to differentiate them from others on campus. Visitor ID cards can be customized with unique ID numbers or expiration dates. Expiration dates make it harder for these cards to be faked or stolen from campus and re-used.
  • With Lanyards: Have each grade level, administrative staff member and maintenance employee wear a different color lanyard. Color coding of ID cards and lanyards makes it more difficult for the cards to be duplicated with fakes. Each person on campus should be aware of what the colors mean. Color codes can also help identify students on unauthorized areas of campus. (For instance, 12th graders being on 9th grade halls or wings without need.)
  • With Bar codes: Bar codes can be used to confirm attendance at school and at school events. They can also help keep track of where a student was last seen, in case they were to disappear.

Implementing color codes is a simple yet effective way to boost security. Small measures like these make it more difficult to forge IDs, because anything outside of the color codes set up by the school would be easily identified.

2. Proximity Cards – Proximity cards offer another layer of security beyond that of flash passes. Proximity cards use radio frequency to send a special number to door-side card readers. These cards are very difficult to forge, because the card reader will only unlock the door if the scanned number matches an identified number in the school security system. These types of cards can provide security at every access point on campus, from the front entrance to the library and cafeteria (wherever a side-door card reader can be installed). It is difficult to keep security and patrol officers in each of these locations, so proximity cards help to fill that gap.

3. Smart Cards – Many schools and larger corporations are implementing the use of smart cards. Smart cards offer the highest level of security. These cards not only help identify students and staff, they can also be used to purchase lunch, buy drinks or snacks from vending machines and check out library books. These cards contain a chip that communicates with a network, and they allow kids to sign into computers, use printers on campus and more. Parents can also monitor their child’s use of funds, and pre-load the card with lunch money, printer money and more. This eliminates the child’s need to carry cash that can be easily stolen or lost. Schools also benefit from smart cards because they save money on paper, ink and other supplies that are often wasted or overused.

What information should be included on a student ID card?

It is essential for any photo ID to include the most recent photo of the student, which is updated at least once each school year, the student’s name and grade level and the school mascot.

However, some schools also include clubs the student is a member of, sports the child plays and other mentions such as honor roll. These additions can turn a common photo ID into something the student is proud to wear, and can help teachers, coaches and parents locate students after school hours, if needed. Schools can even implement a pin system or star system. Each new accomplishment can come with a new pin on the child’s ID card!

For elementary schools looking to implement a badge policy, the following are important to include on each child’s ID card:

Elementary school name, school mascot or logo, grade level, classroom number, teacher name and parent name. If the student rides a bus, it is also important to include the bus number. All of this information can help keep young students safe on campus, and makes it much easier to guide kids back to their classroom if they are lost.

There are many ways schools can use badges and IDs to keep their kids safe. At NameTagWizard.com we are always open to hearing your ideas. Do you have a unique way you have used school photo IDs on your campus or in your workplace?

Designing Name Tags to Improve School Security

America’s public and private schools are protecting students of all ages by continually adding to campus safety measures. One strategy schools are adopting is that of designing name tags that clearly identify students, teachers and faculty members.

Choosing intentional layouts, barcodes, and pictures that are unique to a school helps identify who should be on campus – and who should not. Learn about the many ways you can unify school photo ID badges to improve security on yours or your child’s campus.

Protecting Students of All Ages

The need to address and improve school safety demands the attention of students, parents and the greater community. School violence doesn’t single out a single age group, it touches the lives of students of all ages. States and school districts are focusing their efforts to improve safety for everyone from pre-k and elementary to high school and college. This endemic problem in schools continues to manifest itself in threats, fights, physical attacks and gun violence.

Many schools are taking steps to combat these threats and improve security measures. Decreasing school violence is a multi-faceted effort that includes everything from making sure students have proper supervision to keeping unauthorized visitors from trespassing on campus.

How to Unify School Name Badges

Adding details to the name tags for your school will assist in preventing outsiders from mimicking your design and attempting to get school access with fraudulent badges. These details provide helpful information about the person wearing the badge. Identify everyone on campus by providing their name and a picture on each badge. Designating a specific badge for visitors helps keep unauthorized persons out.

Give badges a unified look with color accents, lanyards and your school logo. Add a vibrant background color that can be seen from a distance. Using your school logo, mascot and colors also promote school spirit. Customize the name tag shape, color, font and size of the text as you choose a design. Each of these critical details distinguishes the look of an individual school’s name tags.

Some schools are adopting the use of security features like barcodes to better track students. Choosing school safety strategies involves weighing factors such as the school budget, potential efficacy of changes and the ability to enact new initiatives.

Improving Identification Policies

Many local level officials are seeking affordable, low-tech solutions. Those concerned about the cost involved in putting new efforts into action may find that changing identification policies could be a place to start.

Updating name tags has a campus-wide reach. Schools may require students, teachers and faculty members to wear designated name tags at all times. Strict adherence to these policies can keep safety at the forefront things.

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Name tags help everyone to know the purpose of each person on campus, such as attending classes, working in the student office or visiting. These can also be used to track attendance and assist with learning names and recognizing who belongs to which department at the beginning of the school year. This added precaution helps address concerns about unwanted visitors on campus. As it is also a visual cue, it encourages peace of mind for school attendees as well as parents. 

Choosing Name Tags for Your School

Here is a summary of the ways you can distinguish name tags for your school:

  • Same Color and Style of Lanyard
  • All Horizontal or Vertical
  • Include Barcodes
  • Add School Logo
  • Include Picture
  • Use a Double-Sided Design
  • Require Slipcovers
  • Design with Color Accents (Stripes or Color Background)

Taking steps to keep fear out of the classroom is important. By improving identification policies and procedures on campus, schools can work toward creating a secure atmosphere and unifying the student body.

Evaluating Other Potential Safety Strategies

Schools are utilizing a variety of strategies to help protect students. Some schools require see-through backpacks and uniforms. Some schools are instituting drug checks background checks. Schools are installing metal detectors, security cameras, panic buttons, and even gunshot-detection sensors.

Communities are increasing their efforts to protect their youth. However, determining the best way to fight violence in schools is difficult. While controversial topics such as whether or not to arm teachers or change current legislation dominate the media, schools are tasked with determining what actions they can take immediately.

By starting with small measures that can be instituted right away, schools may be better able to take action now, establish a safe environment and encourage students to focus on learning.

 

Oval Name Tags, a Matter of Royal Importance

Getty Images Daniel Leal-Olivas from HarpersBazaar.com

Name Tags were a controversial topic for the public observing Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s attendance of the Royal Ascot. The Royal Ascot, an annual horserace with prominent attendees, takes place in Berkshire, England near Windsor Castle. The public eagerly watched this event as it was one of the earliest outings for the royal couple since their recent nuptials.

The Royal Ascot commenced on June 19th and continued until June 23rd. Anticipation for how the new duchess would behave and what she might wear superseded the excitement of which horse was mostly likely to win. While Accidental Agent, Poet’s World, Merchant Navy and Without Parole all had stunning performances, many onlookers focused on the duchess.

And just a bit of that focus centered on a name tag, the one tiny detail that was absent from Meghan’s off-white Givenchy dress.

What’s in a Name (Tag)?

Oval name tags are a familiar add-on touted by Royal Ascot attendees. While Meghan held her name tag in her hand, she did not pin it to her dress. The absence was notable as many members of the royal family typically arrive at this event with name tags pinned to even the most fashionable garments.

Royal expert Duncan Larcombe told BAZAAR.com that everyone at the Royal Ascot is given badges for security. Oval name tags are a helpful tool for designating who has access to a certain area, such as the royal box. The tags include someone’s title with inscriptions like “HRH the Duchess of Sussex.”

Daily life for the general public may not involve wearing fascinators and reclining in royal boxes. But name tags are still a staple at conferences, political events, parties and in the workplace. These indicators provide helpful information for ordinary events, such as a title, office department, and country of origin or military ranking.

Are Name Tags a Requirement for Royal Protocol?

Following protocol is a royal responsibility. It demonstrates propriety and the proper dignity that accompanies being a part of the British Royal Family. However, according to the BAZAAR.com interview of royal historian Marlene Koenig, wearing a name tag at the Royal Ascot is not required by royal protocol.

“Wearing [name tag] pins has nothing to do with protocol,” Koenig told BAZAAR.com. “Protocol is for official, diplomatic, state events, [including] where you sit, when you enter, etc.”

While protocol demands strict adherence to certain rules, wearing name tags is presented as an option for some significant occasions. Name tags worn for special events, like the Royal Ascot, can feature color combinations such as purple and white for royalty, or red, blue and white for Britain. A full-color name tag may represent a certain country as well as a company, organization or school.

Prince Harry & Kate Wear Their Pins

Wearing a name tag is not a requirement. The Queen herself abstained from donning one. Other royal family members fulfilled public expectation by wearing their tags, including Kate Middleton. The Duchess of Cambridge appeared in a white lace dress that, unlike the dress of her newly acquired sister-in-law, featured a name tag pinned over her heart.  Prince Harry was also observed sporting his upon his suit lapel.

Perhaps whether or not one wears a name tag is merely a matter of personal preference. Perhaps Meghan Markle was thinking of protecting her clothing. Maybe a magnetic name tag would have allowed Meghan to preserve her dress and participate in the same manner as the Prince and Duchess of Cambridge.

For your next big event, you may have an option of whether or not to wear a name tag. You may be wearing a fine business suit at a trade show, rather than taupe dress to meet Irish President Michael Higgins, as in one of Meghan’s more recent outings. As you make your choice about wearing a name tag, consider what members of the royal family have done in the past. Kate Middleton chose to wear a name tag and Meghan Markle refrained.

Are you a Kate or a Meghan?

Creative Tips for Custom Name Tags

Creative Name Tags for Improved Customer Experience

If you’re a Disney fan, you know that they’ve recently upped their efforts at offering the best customer service available. Disney, like many other companies and brands, is striving to create a stronger
emotional connection with their customer. Disney’s strategies for creating this connection include pin trading, celebration buttons and name tags.

At NameTagWizard.com, that’s what we do – we connect names with faces, but why is this so important? It’s important because it increases the potential for a more personalized experience for your customer. Every day we make name tags and badges that help companies identify their staff and maintain a professional image for their business, but name tags can do so much more.

Home Town Name Tag

There are many ways employers can get creative with name tags to help initiate personal connections between staff and customer.

If you’re in the entertainment or hospitality industry where employees come from all parts of the world to work for your company, and your guests travel thousands of miles to experience what you have to offer, you most definitely want both parties to feel connected. A positive emotional connection should exist between your customer and your brand image. Ideally this is what brought the customer to you in the first place. More importantly, however, your company should strive for a connection between each customer and staff member. This connection is what keeps your customer coming back and it’s what keeps them from being overly price or convenience conscious. They become brand loyal – which is any business’s ultimate goal. The customer and employee relationship is often the defining interaction for your company and its image.

For many businesses, particularly travel and hospitality, you can initiate personalized interaction between your employees and customers by including their name and home town on their badge. Imagine the personal connection that is created when a customer comes in contact with a staff member who is from the same town. This small moment has a lasting impact not just on the individuals involved, but for the company as a whole. This simple addition of an employee’s home town to a name tag can create many micro moments each day that impress your customer and make them more likely to return, or to speak highly of your business.

Other creative ideas for personalizing name tags include:

1 – A personality identifier
2 – A favorite quote
3 – Voted most likely to be (from the high school yearbook)
4 – A nickname
5 – A zodiac sign
6 – College mascot
7 – Employee since (year)
8 – Favorite pastime

Name Tag for Class Clown

Name tags don’t have to be limited to names and job titles. You can get as creative as you want! Also, customer experience is often closely related to company culture. How happy and fulfilled are your employees? This will show in every interaction with the customer. One way to boost morale and give your employees a chance to feel connected to their jobs is to offer them the chance to decide what goes on their badge. Rather than having each employee wear a name tag that’s been handed to them from their manager, let them decide what should be on their badge. This gives the employee a chance to show who they are at work, whether they are the creative type, analytical type or the office comedian.

Name badges aren’t just plastic or metal tags that are worn from 9-5. They can do so much more for morale and customer experience. Take the opportunity to build personal connections between your staff and your customer with creative name tags from NameTagWizard.com.

Providing Valid Forms of ID

us passports and photo ids
[Updated December 19, 2020]
Table of Contents
Photo IDs
Valid Form of ID
Getting a Photo ID
Using Photo ID Cards
Student IDs
What Are Their Uses?
Using a Student ID
Proof of Age
Real ID
What is REAL ID?
Passports
Identity Verification

Identification cards serve a variety of purposes. Many identification cards show membership to an organization, restrict access to a designated area for security purposes, and provide proof of identity. From a signed government-issued ID, like a Social Security card, to a photo ID, like a student identification card, each card provides differing levels of authority.

It’s important to maintain professionalism during this period of social distancing. High-quality name tags and badges are a great way to ensure your business keeps its professional image intact during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Knowing these levels of authority ensures you have the proper identification anywhere you go. Without adequate identification, you can’t access federal facilities, make specific purchases, or board an aircraft, bus or train.

Stack of Passports

Photo IDs

Photo IDs are usually required for starting employment, opening a bank account, domestic and international travel, driving, renting or buying an apartment or home, purchasing cigarettes, alcohol or guns, applying for government benefits, obtaining a marriage license, test-taking, voting and more.

Providing a Valid Form of ID

The validity of an ID is often determined by the purpose for its use. Government-issued IDs are one of the most commonly recognized forms of acceptable IDs.

The primary types of government IDs include driver’s licenses and non-drivers ID cards, U.S. passports, U.S. military cards, and state or federal agency issued photo IDs. These IDs carry significant weight as each is issued by a proper authority and provides critical information such as photos, birth dates and full names. Certain tasks may require the use of photo IDs that also include a signature.

Non-photo IDs issued by the government include Birth Certificates and Social Security cards.

Getting a Photo ID

Requirements for photo IDs depend on what type of ID you need, such as a U.S. Passport, Driver’s License, state-issued identification card, student ID or work ID. The entity issuing the ID will have specific stipulations for what is necessary to obtain the photo ID. To obtain a government or non-government photo ID, some proof of identity must be presented before cards are issued.

Driver License application

Government-issued photo IDs typically involve filing an application, while student IDs and work name badges are provided when beginning classes or employment. The government has stringent requirements for providing photo IDs, such as requiring a Birth Certificate and Social Security card. For non-US born citizens, a U.S. Passport, Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship, Foreign Passport, US Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or Permanent Resident Card may suffice.

Using Photo ID Cards

A photo ID card includes an image of the holder’s face as well as a full name. To be recognized as valid, photo IDs must not be issued by the holder, but by a separate entity. Photo IDs may be issued by entities such as the government, a school, hospital or employer.  These cards are used for security, establishing identity and gaining access to designated areas.

Non-government-issued photo IDs used for voting include an employee badge issued by a municipal, county, state or federal government office, concealed carry of handgun license issued by the state, public assistance identification card, an identification card issued by an Indian tribe and current student IDs from accredited schools.

Student IDs

What Can a Student ID Be Used For?

Many colleges, universities and technical schools issue students photo IDs to provide access to certain resources, allow campus purchases, secure facilities, gain attendance information and serve other functions. On campus, students can use IDs to check out library books, pay for cafeteria food, and enter classroom buildings, dorms and science labs. Off campus, student can use IDs for discounts at restaurants, local retail stores, movie theaters, public transit locations, and local attractions.

Student ID cards often feature QR codes, photos, school logos, and other distinguishing features. Most student ID cards include student name and the year the ID is issued. Because these IDs are issued by educational institutions, they can function as proof of identity in some cases and may meet qualifications to be considered a valid photo ID.

Using a Student ID as a Valid Photo ID

Student IDs can also be useful for tasks such as voting, test taking, traveling and establishing identity. To be considered valid, Student IDs must be issued by an accredited school and must be current (not expired). The acceptance of the ID depends on the issuing body and the purpose of use.

Student photo IDs are accepted as a valid ID for voting in some states, and for taking the SAT. In some situations, possessing just a Student ID will not provide sufficient proof of identification. For example, a student ID functions as only a supporting document for traveling and establishing identity, such as when applying for a U.S. Passport or starting employment.


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Can a Student ID be used as Proof of Age?

No, student IDs cannot typically be used as official proof of age. Government and state issued ID cards are required for most situations that would require showing proof of age. Although some schools may include a birth date on the cards, these still are not considered valid. Proof of age is often a concern when buying alcohol. However, many bars and restaurants are required to accept IDs such as driver’s license or passports.

Outside the United States, in places such as Australia or the United Kingdom, there are “Proof of Age” and “Proof of Identity” cards that are issued for different purposes.

Real ID

Starting on October 1st, 2020, all United States residents will need to carry REAL ID compliant identification in order to fly.

What is REAL ID?

The REAL ID Act, passed in 2005, was enacted to standardize required identifications for “Federal facilities…federally regulated commercial aircraft…[and] nuclear power plants.”¹ You won’t be able to enter these areas or fly without a REAL ID compliant license. Compliant driver’s licenses will have a star somewhere at the top of the card.

“What About My Passport?”

You passport will remain a viable and acceptable form of ID once the REAL ID Act goes into full effect. You will still need to ensure your passport stays current and up-to-date.

Identity Verification

While REAL ID compliant driver’s licenses will be required, the TSA may allow you to fly if your forget your identification. You will need to comply and allow additional screening and provide further personal information for agents to confirm your identity.² Keeping additional information on hand in the form of membership cards, student IDs, or custom photo ID badges could help expedite any additional screening you will experience should you leave your REAL ID at home.

References

  1. Department of Homeland Security
  2. Transportation Security Administration