CAASS Frequently Asked Questions

1) Where does student information inside CAASS come from?

Student demographic and schedule information is provided to CAASS from the district SIS system. We have developed a simple file structure that acts as our standards for all data that is supplied from the school district
2) How many schools can run off of a CAASS system?

CAASS has the ability to operate in a multi-school campus environment. CAASS does require that the schools are in the same physical location and on the same school network.
3) Can we use our photo ID card for Lunch?

Yes. CAASS provides the capability to scan a CAASS photo ID card for cafeteria entry and/or meal code scanning.
4) Can we use our photo ID card for Library?

Yes. CAASS allows school administrators to print a second barcode on either side of the ID card to represent the student’s library code.
5) Can we still scan if our network is down?

Yes. The CAASS ScanStation has the ability to capture scan data even if you’re not connected to the network. This is referred to as “Stand Alone” mode and will require that the Scanstations are synced with the CAASS server.
6) How long will data be stored on a ScanStation?

A ScanStation with no network connectivity can store attendance and all scan data for up to 30 days.
7) What does it mean if a student scans his/her ID card and we see “invalid barcode” on the screen?

This generally means that the card that the student has is not the most current card printed for them. This could also mean that the ScanStation does not contain up-to-date data and there could be a problem with the ScanStation.
8) What should we do if we see the message, “ScanStation is running in Stand Alone Mode” when we start the ScanStation?

First, verify that the ScanStation has network connectivity. Secondly, try just rebooting the ScanStation. Thirdly, call the STM Customer Support Center. Remember, ScanStation will still operate in Stand Alone Mode.
9) What is “Stand Alone Mode”?

Stand Alone Mode simply means that ScanStation does not detect any network connectivity, but you can still scan.
10) Can we use our entry Scanstations for lunch scanning?

Yes. Simply roll the mobile cart to the cafeteria. ScanStations running in “Stand Alone” Mode must be synced with the main CAASS server before scanning for lunch.
11) How many ScanStations does our school need for entrance scanning?

We recommend 1 ScanStation per 500 students. This is also dependent upon entry ways.
12) What kind of student information is available in CAASS?

CAASS offers a wide variety of student information a few are; attendance data, class cut data, tardy information, student schedules, and much more.
13) How does CAASS handle classroom attendance?

We have a CAASS module called EDCR, which allows teachers to update attendance in the classroom by accessing an in-house web page.
14) How can CAASS help reduce class cuts and absenteeism?

CAASS requires that students scan into the school building upon arrival so the student’s arrival time is captured. With the CAASS Teacher Module attendance is always up-to-date and accurate.
15) How do I get CAASS System Supplies?

STM offers competitive pricing on all supplies necessary for the CAASS system. Simply call (800) 574-0236.
16) What happens if the same ID card is swiped multiple times?

The ScanStation will notify the user with an audible and visual alert that the student is already checked in.
17) How does CAASS get class cut information and how long is class cut information available at the ScanStation?

CAASS receives class cut information from the Teacher Module or the legacy DCR system.
18) How do discipline incidents show up at the ScanStations?

Discipline information is entered into the CAASS Admin server and is then synchronized down to the ScanStations in the form of an alert.
19) What reports will assist me in managing attendance and discipline issues?

CAASS out of the box comes with many “canned” reports; daily attendance, suspended students, daily late students, and many more.
20) Can I use my digital phone lines from my phone system for the Phone Notification module?

No. The Phone Notification Module requires analog phone lines. You may have up to 4 analog phone lines.