502.10 - Search and Seizure

School property is held in public trust by the board.  School authorities may, without a search warrant, search a student, student lockers, desks, work areas, or student automobiles based on a reasonable suspicion under the circumstances and in a manner reasonable in scope to maintain order and discipline in the schools, promote the educational environment, and protect the safety and welfare of students and school personnel.

School authorities may seize any illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials discovered in the search.  Items of contraband may include but are not limited to nonprescription controlled substances, such as marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, barbiturates, apparatus used for the administration of controlled substances, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, weapons, explosives, poisons and stolen property.  Such items are not to be possessed by a student anywhere on the school premises or on property under the jurisdiction of the school district.  Possession of such items will be grounds for disciplinary action and may be grounds for reporting to local law enforcement.

The board believes that such illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials generally cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a threat to the health and safety of students, personnel, or visitors on the school premises. 

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  U.S. Const. Amend. IV.
                                      New Jersey v T.L.O., 469 U.S. 325, 105 S.Ct. 733 (1985).
                                      Shy Cason v Connie Cook, Federal District Court for the 8^th Circuit, No. 85-2393 (Iowa, January 28, 1987).
                                      Iowa Code Chapter 808A (1989).

Cross Reference:  502     Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                      503     Student Discipline

Approved:  4-13-92              
Reviewed:  11-12-18            
Revised: