Investigations and Arrests by Police
All contact between the Charter School and the police department on matters involving students shall be made through the administrative office. The police have ample opportunity to talk to a student away from the Charter School and before or after school hours. They should be encouraged to do so. Law enforcement authorities should only be allowed to conduct an interview in the Charter School if they can show that special circumstances exist or if the interview is at the request of the school. This determination should be made by the Executive Director or designee.
1. If the police have a warrant for the student’s arrest, they must be permitted to arrest the student; however, whenever possible, the arrest should be conducted in the Executive Director’s office out of view of other students. Before removing a student from school, the police shall sign a release form in which they assume full responsibility for the student;
2. Law enforcement personnel should not be allowed to roam about the Charter School until the student is found. They should remain in the administration office while Charter School personnel seek out the student;
3. If possible, the educational program of the student should not be disrupted to allow for police questioning;
4. Any questioning by police should be conducted in a private room or area where confidentiality can be maintained;
5. If law enforcement officials are to be allowed to question a student under the age of eighteen (18), a reasonable attempt shall be made to notify the parents, except in cases of suspected child abuse or child neglect involving the parent. The parents should be given the opportunity to come to the Charter School prior to the questioning;
6. If the parents are notified and able to attend, they should be allowed to be present at the interview. The Executive Director or designee should be present at the interview, but should not take part in any questioning. The Executive Director or designee should at all times remain a neutral observer.
Policy History
Adopted on: May 17, 2021
Revised on:
Reviewed on: