Frederick Campus - Maryland School for the Deaf

Weapons and Look-Alike Weapons
Firearms and weapons are strictly prohibited on school property for all students, employees, volunteers,
substitutes, interns and visitors. Possession of "look-alike" weapons on school property is considered and will be
dealt with in the same manner as possession of actual weapons. Weapons include, but are not limited to, guns
and knives of any kind, razors, metal knuckles, nunchaku and explosive devices. Penalties for the possession of
weapons or "look-alikes" are outlined in the Student Code of Conduct.
Any student who suspects that another student is in possession of a firearm, weapon, or “look-alike” weapon on
school property should report such information immediately to one of the following MSD personnel: a Student
Life Counselor; Student Life Counselor, Supervisor; a Teacher; a Therapist; the Dean of Students; an Assistant
Principal; the Director of Student Affairs, the Principal or the Superintendent. Any MSD personnel to whom
such information has been reported must promptly notify the Principal for investigation and the Principal will
notify appropriate law enforcement personnel, when appropriate.
Police Questioning on School Premises
MSD follows the policies regarding police questioning of students applicable to the local school systems found
in state regulations COMAR 13A.08.01.13. Police investigations involving the questioning of students are
prohibited on school premises unless in connection with a crime committed on the premises or in connection
with an investigation which, if not immediately permitted, would compromise the success of that investigation or
endanger the lives or safety of the students or other persons, provided, however, that a school official should be
present throughout the questioning. Except in cases involving suspected child neglect or child abuse,
whenever investigative questioning of students is permitted on the premises, MSD shall promptly advise the
parent or guardians of the nature of the investigation and such other details as may be required.
MSD shall permit personnel from a local department of social services and/or a police officer to question a
student on school premises in an investigation involving suspected child neglect under Family Law Article,
Title 5, Subtitle 7, Annotated Code of Maryland, or suspected child abuse under Family Law Article, Title 5,
Subtitle 7, Annotated Code of Maryland. MSD personnel are prohibited from notifying parents or guardians of
investigations on school premises involving suspected child neglect or abuse under the Family Law Article of
Maryland.
Searches on School Property
The Maryland School for the Deaf may conduct random, unannounced searches of buildings and grounds,
including student rooms and lockers, for illegal substances, weapons, communication devices, and sexually
explicit materials. A search is done in order to maintain a safe learning environment and is not directed against
any student. Canine units will be used from time to time. Strict guidelines for school administrators are in place
for searches of students, lockers and closets and possessions.
Parent and Student Handbook, 2012-2013 Frederick 66