File JIH
Questioning and Searches of Students
MSAD #41 seeks to maintain a safe and orderly environment in the schools. School administrators are authorized to question and/or search students in accordance with this policy and accompanying administrative procedures.
Students shall not bring, possess or store at school any items that are prohibited by law, MSAD #41 school policies and or school rules, or which interfere with the operations, discipline or general welfare of the school.
Students may be searched upon reasonable suspicion that they possess any items or substances which are prohibited by law, Board policies and/or school rules, or which interfere with the operations, discipline or general welfare of the school. When special circumstances exist, including a suspected ongoing violation of the Board’s drug, alcohol, or weapons policies, or when a potential threat to safety is identified, school administrators may search groups or students or the entire student body without individualized suspicion.
Student use of all school facilities, including but not limited to lockers, desks, and parking lots, is a privilege granted by the school. All storage facilities are school property and remain under the control, custody and supervision of the school. Students have no expectation of privacy in school storage facilities or for any items placed in such storage facilities. School administrators have the authority to inspect and search storage facilities and their contents on a random basis, with or without reasonable suspicion, and without notice or consent.
If a search produces evidence that a student has violated or is violating the law, MSAD #41 policies and/or school rules, such evidence may be seized and impounded by school administrators and appropriate disciplinary action may be taken. Evidence of criminal conduct shall be forwarded to law enforcement authorities as required by law or as deemed appropriate by school administrators.
School staff, students, and parents shall be informed of this policy on an annual basis through handbooks and/or other means selected by school administrators.
The Superintendent is authorized to develop and implement, with input from legal counsel, administrators, staff and others as appropriate, any administrative procedures necessary to carry out this policy. Such administrative procedures shall be subject to MSAD #41 Board of Directors approval.
Cross Reference: JIH-R Questioning and Searches of Students – Administrative Procedure
JICIA – Weapons, Violence and School Safety
JK – Student Discipline
KLG – Relations with Law Enforcement Authorities
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Adoption: