Board approves random canine contraband-detection visits after equity concerns raised

The Monrovia Unified School District board approved a contract with West Coast Protection LLC (doing business as Interquest detection services) to provide random, unannounced canine visits on middle- and high-school campuses for contraband detection.

Board discussion centered on the mechanics of visits and equity concerns. District staff described typical procedures: handlers check credentials on arrival, administrators accompany the handler, students are asked to leave personal items in their seats while the dog inspects backpacks and coats, and a dog “alerts” (a sit) rather than barking. "When the dog arrives with its trained handler, they have to check in and show proper credentials at the school," the staff presenter said, adding that when a dog indicates a hit, staff will discreetly retrieve the item and follow up with the student and family; the presenter emphasized that responses can be restorative and are not always punitive.

Trustee Okone urged caution, saying the approach “brings up complex questions… given their association with broader histories of policing… that have at times led to fear and instability, especially within marginalized communities.” Okone asked for detail on how sites and rooms are selected and whether the program reduces substance-abuse rates; staff said visits are randomized by campus areas and that the program can connect families to services in some cases.

After discussion, trustees moved to a vote and the motion carried. The transcript records the motion as approved by roll call; the meeting record shows the item was pulled for discussion and then approved at the action-item stage. The board asked staff to implement visits with administrator presence and to emphasize dignity and restorative next steps when follow-up is required.