FILE: JCAB-R
USE OF METAL DETECTOR GUIDELINES
The Lincoln Parish School Board recognizes that school systems in Louisiana are faced with ever-increasing violence and the use of weapons on or adjacent to school campuses and after-school social functions. In this connection, it is generally believed that metal detectors could prove useful as a deterrent, when utilized in a publicized random search program. Therefore, the purpose of these guidelines is to deter the bringing of weapons onto school grounds, and to thereby reduce the potential for violent incidents. School districts have the authority to employ metal detectors. These guidelines are designed to ensure that searches conducted with a metal detector are lawful, unbiased, and respectful of the right of privacy. These guidelines shall be adhered to whenever searches are made with a metal detector.
Use of Metal Detectors
All teachers and/or administrators who have reasonable belief that a student is in possession of weapons or illegal drugs shall be authorized to search the person of said student. Any such action by teachers or administrators shall not be done maliciously or with the intention of embarrassing, harassing, or intimidating the student.
When metal detectors are used, the individuals to be searched shall be requested to remove all metal objects from their pockets along with any bags, parcels, or other containers being carried. If the detector activates on a person, the individual conducting the search shall request that any remaining metal objects be removed. If the detector activates again, the individual will be personally searched by an administrator of the same sex. At least one witness, also of the same sex as the student, shall be present throughout the search.
Discovery of Weapons
Should an individual be found in possession of a weapon (i.e., firearms, knives, or other implements which can be used as weapons), the administrator shall notify the appropriate school official and/or law enforcement officer. The administrator and/or law enforcement officer shall take custody of all weapons and other prohibited objects.
Scheduling of Metal Detector Searches
It is recommended that students should be put on notice that they will be searched at various hours of the school day to avoid predictability. To the extent possible, locations for the search within a building or grounds that do not expose students to the view of the general student population shall be selected.
Search Operation
The pre-established plan to search students should include the following:
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(1) |
Search/detect students at random as they enter school, enter cafeteria, and leave school, search all or every third student;
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(2) |
Select at random students who arouse a reasonable suspicion that they are carrying a weapon or contraband. The reasonable suspicion actions which should be recognized should be taught/trained by law enforcement officers;
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(3) |
Select at random an entire class to search upon entering classroom and/or upon leaving classroom;
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(4) |
The parent or guardian of every student should be notified that random searches will be conducted. This notice should be done in a way to insure that the parents have received the notice.
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(5) |
Parents should also be notified upon the decision to personally search a student when reasonable time and circumstances allow. |
Ref: La. Rev. Stat. Ann. Stat. Ann. ยงยง17:416, 17:416.3
State v. Stein, 203 Kan. 638 456 P.2d (1969)
Board minutes, 8-2-94
Lincoln Parish School Board