A new, optional, alternate ID number will be available to students beginning in the winter 2006 term. This ID will be an 8-digit, system-generated number that can be used in place of the 9-digit student ID -- normally the student's Social Security number -- to store, access and display records.

New students will still need to enter a 9-digit ID when they apply for admission. The alternate ID will be generated after the application has been completed and will then be available for use by the student. Students who are continuing or returning, or who have attended either college in the past, will also receive an alternate ID.

The alternate ID will be available to students via TouchNet (web and voice) and on the signature page of the online application after they complete the application process.

"By using the alternate ID, students can help us prevent identity theft," says Joe Lampo, Information Systems supervisor. "The IDs will be used throughout the Student Information System on screens, reports and forms."

A new state law, that will go into effect in two years, requires that schools not use student Social Security numbers unless absolutely necessary, as in the case of financial aid. The law also requires that community colleges provide an alternate ID to students by January 2007. The District is beginning the process of changing student ID numbers now in order to comply with the new law and to protect students from identity fraud.