Binghamton City School District

164 Hawley Street

PO Box 2126
Binghamton, NY 13902-2126
(607) 762-8100
Fax: (607) 762-8110

January 23, 2019

Last week, a concern regarding our procedures and application of student searches was
brought to the district’s attention. The concern was immediately investigated.
Unfortunately, our students shared that these actions have had the unintended
consequences of making the students feel traumatized. We sincerely apologize for the
impact this has had and are working with these families to support their children’s
success.

Students are protected by the Constitution from unreasonable searches and seizures. A
student may, under current law and policy, be searched in a school building by an
administrator when the administrator reasonably suspects that a student’s health is in
danger or is in possession of a substance that may harm themselves or others. These
searches involve an administrator requesting a student to empty their pockets, remove
their shoes and/or remove their jackets.

School administrators will be gathering to review existing procedures. The resulting

regulations, which will ensure safety and personal integrity of all of our students, will be
communicated to our families. Additionally, the district’s current Board Policy will move
forward for review. We appreciate everyone’s support in ensuring a safe community.

Educating, empowering and challenging all students to become

productive, global citizens through innovative approaches to learning.