Policy for searches revised to remove language regarding student pat-downs

North Allegheny School District has rev i s e d its policy on searching students, removing language regarding pat-down searches and restricting when students’ electronic devices can be searched.

“District administrators have been instructed that the only time a patdown search would be appropriate would be in an emergency in order to ensure the safety of students and staff,” said Emily Schaffer, district public relations and communications specialist.

The amended policy also states that confiscating a student-owned electronic device should be directly related to the reason the device is being searched.

“Examination by school staff of text messages, call logs, files, images, or other data contained on a studentowned mobile telephone or other electronic device, without the student’s consent, normally constitutes a search that must be justified by reasonable suspicion that material in violation of law, District policy or school rules,” according to the policy.

District-owned devices used by students can be searched at any time.

The policy also states that searches requested by law enforcement agencies, rather than school officials, must be accompanied by a warrant.

The new policy, approved Aug. 16, protects students’ rights, board members said.

“When we talk about searches, we want to be very cognizant of protecting our students and their privacy,” board member Scott Russell said.

Board member Suzanne Filiaggi, an attorney who has worked in both prosecution and defense, praised the policy.

“I am impressed, as I continually am, with the thoroughness of this policy. Our students’ rights will be protected and everyone will be in a safe environment,” she said.

The policy passed 8-0. The vote was taken before Christopher Jacobs was appointed to the open board seat.