Provides a model of search and seizure procedures available to public school officials and a discussion of the legal liability and risks involved in the use of the different procedures. Discusses probable cause, warrant requirements, and reasonable suspicion. Includes an appendix with a sample search and seizure policy. (MD)

To search or not to search is a perplexing issue facing school leaders. On one hand, school officials are responsible for providing a safe and orderly learning environment for all students. On the other hand, they must recognize and respect students' personal rights. Achieving this delicate balance often is difficult for school officials. This…

In the "New Jersey vs. T.L.O." decision the Supreme Court clarified the law concerning student searches. Reviews two recent California cases illustrating how courts are interpreting the Supreme Court decision in a way that upholds reasonable student searches. (MD)

Reactions to the retirement of Justice Sandra Day O'Connor and debate over the president's replacement nomination, Judge John Roberts, Jr., of the D.C. Circuit, dominated this summer's Supreme Court recess. Subsequently, after Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist's death on September 3, 2005, President Bush nominated Roberts for the chief justice…

Discusses the federal constitutional limits placed on school officials in various attempts to reduce crime in their schools. Describes searches of a student's person and belongings, school lockers, and the use of metal detectors. Possible pitfalls for schools in their efforts to reduce crime include due process requirements. (97 footnotes) (MLF)

Findings of a study that examined the effect of a 13-week inservice program on administrators' awareness of laws governing student searches and seizures are presented in this practicum report. Four school-site administrators participated in the project once a week. Program activities included case analyses, role-playing exercises, and…

Suggests that it is necessary to protect the privacy of government procedures that could compromise security, yet there is also a need to revise and fine-tune legislation that expands government authority. Asserts that all major corrections in the delicate balance between public safety and civil rights typically require corrections themselves. (NB)

The rights of youth in New Mexico if they are arrested and accused of an illegal act are described. Emphasis is on situations they may encounter, what choices they have, and what they can do to help themselves. Although written specifically for youth in New Mexico, the book can easily be used or adapted for use with youth in other states.…

This digest presents a brief review of recent Fourth Amendment decisions that affect the rights of students and the parameters of schools' authority to maintain a crime-free environment. Although Federal decisions apply nationwide and do mark the boundaries of permissible state and local action, state and local laws and regulations must always be…

A packet of game materials, designed to help young people better understand what the law is, what the police officer's duties are, and what pressures and fears the police officers experience daily, is presented. The game, designed for a group of 20 to 35 students, contains: Teacher's Manual, Attitude Survey Master, Observer Evaluation Master,…