Steps to a Safe & Secure Learning Environment
The safety of our students, staff, and guests is our greatest priority. In an ongoing effort to improve district safety and security, the school board has approved policy 502.8R3 Use Of Dogs To Search School Property that permits the use of K9’s to search district property for illegal contraband or items that are subject to the interference of a safe and secure learning environment. I encourage you to please review the policy with your children to help them prepare for and understand the value and importance of a safe and secure learning environment.
The district is working with the Clarinda Police Department and the Page County Sheriff's Office to plan and prepare for random and unannounced K9 searches. The K9 units have a trained handler who will prevent the K9 from engaging with students during a search. During a search, the selected building will go into a “K9 lockdown”. During a K9 lockdown, no one is allowed to enter or exit the building as students and staff remain in secure areas. Once the K9 lockdown has been announced, the district will send families a JMC text message that the designated building (high school, middle school, or elementary) is in K9 lockdown so you are aware and prepared to respond to any communication from your child or other parties.
While we have carefully planned for the K9 search, we ask for your patience and understanding as we work diligently to improve the safety and security of our students, staff, and schools.