COEUR d'ALENE - After classes started Tuesday at Ramsey Magnet School, a few parents walked into the building to drop off forgotten lunches and homework. Some students arrived late.

But beginning today, the days of just walking into Ramsey will be over. The school is one of the first in Coeur d'Alene to begin using the district's new front-door sentry system. School officials tested the new security equipment on Tuesday.

"For some people, this might not feel right, because we're making public schools less accessible," said Superintendent Matt Handelman. "We believe it's the right thing to do."

The $420,000 price tag for the new equipment is being paid for with funds from a $1.4 million levy voters approved in March, specifically for security items.

Doors into school buildings will now remain locked during the day, and visitors will have to press a buzzer and be screened by office staff members before being allowed inside. A video camera will allow school employees to determine whether they recognize the visitors.

By mid-February, the new system will be in use in all Coeur d'Alene public schools.

"Don't be surprised if you are asked for your name and purpose of your visit and to show photo identification ... Even if you are a regular volunteer or visitor to our school, staff may need to ask you for a Photo ID," said a notice sent Tuesday to parents.

Anna Wilson, the principal at Ramsey, said office staff members will be the most affected by the "buzz-in" entry system.

"We're counting on our visitors to be patient when they come to school, for sometimes undoubtedly the phones will be ringing, a student will have a bloody nose, another student may be sick, a pesky principal might be asking for a purchase order all while the door is buzzing," Wilson said. "There will definitely be a learning curve but with patience and teamwork, the transition will smooth out which will all be worthwhile if the kids are that much safer."