GET SCHOOLS ON THE BEAT

People need to know just what the so-called "drug-free zones" around
schools really are. These self-imposed zones are, simply put, exercises in
public relations and an effort to boost morale among the student body -
which might or might not be affected by rampant drug use. Currently,
there's one in place around Kwalikum Secondary and Qualicum Beach
Elementary schools. Another is proposed for Ballenas Secondary in Parksville.

To be seen to be doing something to rid schools and the surrounding area of
an undesirable element, some schools are taking to designating such zones
around themselves and the nearby community. They are, however, only doing
what any community member, group, business or public institution should be
doing in the face of criminal activity - calling the police.

And as a result, the police get to do what they do anywhere else - enforce
the laws. And students have the chance to feel safe at school - something
they should be able to experience anywhere.

So, why should a school be exempt from proper enforcement of Canada's laws
(whether you agree with them or not)? Indeed, schools play host to young
people who are treated differently in our justice system, but they are
nevertheless a part of our community as a whole. That alone should subject
them to the same rules the rest of us live by, and not give the authorities
(school or police) a reason to lessen the consequences of illegal activity.

To that end, schools should be part of a police officer's regular beat.
School walk-throughs, patrols around school property - even drug sniffing
dogs (which are in use in many schools in Alberta) could be considered if
an investigation warrants it. In no way does this mean a school should
become 'locked down' like a small prison, but treated like any other public
gathering place (town hall, library, pub) when it comes to policing.

Having police officers assigned to a school as its 'liaison' is a start -
but allows for big gaps in how a school is protected. We also shouldn't
expect teachers to take on the role of the police when there are crimes
being committed at or near school.

A simple change in how we look at policing our schools - eliminating it as
some sort of protected zone - should continue to afford young people the
special social and legal protections granted them in Canada.