New Missouri website speeds results of background checks

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- Missouri school districts will be able to obtain the results of background checks more quickly, thanks to a new system that recently was launched.

Districts are being trained this summer on how to use and access the Missouri State Highway Patrol's secured website called the Missouri Automated Criminal History Site.

Receiving the results of background checks used to take weeks in the past, but the new system allows the districts to get them within a matter of minutes. The site is the state's central repository for records of criminal activity, including sex offenses.

Another layer of the system, expected to be fully operational by early 2016, is designed to quickly alert districts if a current employee has been arrested or charged with a crime.

"It's a great step forward toward the goal of keeping students safe and hiring new staff quickly and efficiently," said Parker McKenna, chief human resources officer for the Springfield School District. "Obviously, we want to know if anyone responsible for the safety of students is part of any crime that could jeopardize their ability to do their job."

State law requires Missouri public schools to conduct a criminal-background check for school employees. Annual background checks are required for any employees who have contact with students.

The previous system for the background checks was cumbersome and results were sent on paper and by mail, which could take weeks, according to Margery Tanner, director of educator certification for the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Tanner said using an online system decreases the risk a paper copy of results would be lost or misplaced.