POLICE DOG SEARCHES AN OPTION IN SCHOOLS

Trustees To Vote On Search Policy In Two Weeks

Zero-tolerance drug rules in Surrey schools may get some teeth.

After months of review, a draft Safe and Caring Schools policy, including
regulations regarding locker searches and use of police dogs, was presented
to trustees Thursday.

The idea to use random sweeps by drug-sniffing dogs to ferret out students
with drugs was floated more than a year and a half ago and was met with
reaction ranging from outright support to grave concern for privacy.

The idea has changed from its original form in that while dogs may be
brought in, random searches are unlikely. As well, RCMP dogs will be used
instead of animals from a private security company to prevent legal wrangles.

"Where there is the possibility of prosecution as a result of evidence
found, RCMP will be contacted to conduct the search to ensure any evidence
seized will be admissible in court," the draft policy reads.

"The dogs won't be used regularly, randomly," trustee Heather Stilwell said
Thursday, adding while dog searches have never been conducted in Surrey
schools in the past, they may, legally, have been allowed.

"This sort of just takes any of the gray out of it.

"But the policy's very, very clear that principals have the right to open
lockers. It's not even a question. They've got a lot of authority in their
own building."

Patricia Landsley, president of the District Parent Advisory Council,
greeted the drug rules with mixed emotions.

"We're hoping it doesn't have to be implemented on a regular basis," she said.

"Enforcement is the last resort. But at the same time, we have to protect
our children."

Trustees are expected to vote on the safety policy in two weeks.