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P 2155 Use of Metal Detectors

General Policy

The use of metal detection devices is authorized to provide building administrators with an option in the establishment of a safe and secure learning environment. Metal detectors should never be viewed in isolation as an only option, but rather a component of a comprehensive school plan to maintain a safe and secure learning environment. Nothing in this policy is intended to limit or prohibit the use of metal detectors at the discretion of the principal.

Community Awareness and Input

Prior to the initial use of metal detectors by authorized school personnel, relevant information regarding the procedures for such utilization shall be communicated to the school community. This information will be included in each school’s handbook.

The school safety plan should include guidelines indicating the circumstances which could warrant the use of metal detectors and the procedures to be followed during searches involving the use of metal detectors.

Emergency Use

School principals and the Superintendent shall have the authority in an emergency and in support of specific school safety issues to employ metal detectors at any site at any time.

Staff Training

School administrators, teachers, or other designated school staff may operate metal detection equipment. All staff members performing this function require training.

Notice

Notice concerning the possible use of metal detectors in schools will be stated in each school’s handbook.

Procedures

Assigned school personnel ask student(s) to remove metal objects and to place them on a table. If a walk-through is used, the student walks through and the detector sounds, personnel will use a hand-held detector to scan the student. Book bags, purse, etc. will also be scanned. If the detector is activated, personnel will ask student(s) to remove the metal objects and will scan the student again. If the detector is activated again, personnel will once more ask student(s) to remove metal objects. The activation of a properly working metal detector shall constitute a reasonable suspicion to conduct a search of the student(s) or items carried by the student(s). If student(s) refuses or no explanation for the activation of the detector is evident, the student(s) may be asked to proceed to the school office for additional searches and/or other disciplinary action including referral to law enforcement agencies.  If contraband is found, the student will be disciplined pursuant to the Student Code of Conduct and applicable criminal statutes.


Last Updated: July 2018