Personal Property and Privacy

Students generally have a right of privacy for themselves and their personal property while on school district property and at school-sponsored or associated events.

Students have the right to a safe and healthful educational environment.

According to Minnesota law, students have the right to utilize school-owned property (i.e., lockers, desks) for storing appropriate items of personal property with the understanding that all school-owned property is within the exclusive control of the school district and may be searched by school authorities for any reason, at any time, without permission, consent or requirement of a search warrant. 

Students have the right to be notified of a search unless notification would impede an ongoing investigation. 

Minnesota Statute § 121A.72, subd. 1

School Board Policy 502 - Search of Student Lockers, Desks, Personal Possessions and Student's Person

Students must not bring any item or material that violates school district policy, school rules or state or federal law, or that would cause, or tend to cause, a disruption or endanger the health or safety of students or other people onto school district property or to school-sponsored or associated events. Items prohibited include, but are not limited to, weapons and “look-alikes,” alcoholic beverages, controlled substances and “look-alikes,” overdue books and other materials belonging to the school district, and stolen property.

When reasonable suspicion exists to believe a student possesses prohibited items or that a search will uncover evidence of a violation of a school rule or of the law, school administrators or designees may conduct a reasonable search of a student’s person or property.

Students are responsible for keeping their lockers/desks in good condition and free of any items that are illegal or prohibited.