Dear Community,

I am writing to inform you that we just completed a shelter in place drill.  The purpose was twofold.  First and foremost, shelter in place is an emergency protocol that provides extra security measures when there is a threatening situation outside of the buildings.  We should be as familiar with this protocol as we are with the exit procedure in the event of a fire.  I also used this opportunity to conduct a k-9 assisted search of the campus.   In partnership with local and regional law enforcement and a representative of the District Attorney’s office, the search took place during homeroom and lasted a little more than twenty minutes.  I informed the student body via written message that was read aloud in homerooms shortly before the event took place. I am thankful to report that nothing was found.

To the best of my knowledge, this is the first time a k-9 search has ever happened at Wayland High School.  Thus, it was not an easy decision.  The search should not indicate a change in values, a shift in school culture or the nature of our relationship with students.     We are still a student-centered learning organization staffed by caring adults who work hard to ensure a top notch education for the students you have entrusted to us.  We still believe in strong trusting relationships with students as the foundation of the educational experience.  Today’s event should signify a strong commitment to a safe, drug-free campus, high expectations with respect to behavior and adherence to the school code and the law, and the fact I/we take the issue at hand very seriously.

I have posted the message read aloud to students below.  As always, I welcome your feedback.

Best,

Pat

Dear Wayland High School Student Body,

I have asked your homeroom teacher to read this message aloud so that you are informed as to what is happening this morning.  We are currently in a shelter in place, which is an emergency response protocol designed to keep you safe in certain situations.  To be clear, there is NO emergency right now.  I called for the shelter in place for two reasons.  First, this is an opportunity to practice this protocol.  The more familiar you are with the process, the more effective it will be if there is an emergency.  I am also using this drill to allow local and regional law enforcement conduct a thorough search of the campus with K-9 assistance.

I want you all to know that this should not be taken as a collective accusation.  I respect each and every one of you and I believe you all to be good people.  Nonetheless, we have had a number of on-campus, drug-related issues in years’ past.  I care deeply about you and your schooling experience and I am committed to and serious about a safe and drug-free environment.  I refuse to sit by idly with the knowledge that I have about drugs on campus.

The search should last about ten minutes.  Upon my announcement, you will be permitted to proceed to your 3^rd block class. 

I appreciate your cooperation and I value your feedback.  Please call, email or pull me aside on campus if you have questions or wish to discuss this event.

Sincerely,

Mr. Tut