and (2) the search as actually conducted is reasonably related in scope to the circumstances which justified
the search in the first place.
A search is justified at its inception when there are reasonable grounds for suspecting that the search will
turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating either the law or the rules of the
school. Reasonable grounds for such a search may include but are not limited to an alert by a dog trained
to detect contraband or illegal substances. A search is reasonably related in scope when the measures
adopted are reasonably related to the objectives of the search and not excessively intrusive in light of the
age and sex of the student and the nature of the infraction.
POLICE SCREENINGS/SEARCHES OF SCHOOL PROPERTY
INCLUDING THE USE OF CANINE (K9) TEAMS #1411.1
In an effort to deter violations of school rules and illegal activity on school grounds, the school administration
is empowered to call upon the Enfield Police Department to assist it in conducting screenings and/or searches
of persons or personal possessions on school property. This may include screening of automobiles and other
personal possessions on all school property such as but not limited to lockers, storage areas, and parking areas
by the Enfield Police Department’s K9 Team. Personal items brought onto school grounds by students,
employees, service contractors, and visitors are subject to said screenings which may result in establishing
reasonable suspicion or probable cause to conduct a search.
Screenings can be conducted without prior notification to students, employees, service contractors, and
visitors. However, the school administration shall annually inform students, employees, and parents of the
fact that screenings may occur without prior notice.
Information obtained through such screenings, including an alert through the K9 team, may establish
reasonable cause for a subsequent search. Such searches may be conducted by school officials with or
without the assistance of the Enfield Police Department, and the scope of the search shall be reasonably
related to the object of the search and shall not be excessively intrusive in light of the age and sex of any
students involved. Administrative regulations for this policy shall include guidelines for notification to the
parent/guardian of any student who becomes the subject of a search as the result of a screening as authorized
by this policy.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Enfield Public School system and the Enfield Police
Department shall serve as the working guideline for said screenings and searches. The Superintendent is
authorized to enter into the MOU on behalf of the Board.
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