Hamilton’s campus has introduced a multitude of new policies to reduce behaviors like ditching, drug use, and vandalism. However, an influx of policy changes has increased complaints as students question the necessity of their implementation.
In March, students were inconvenienced by searches when they were found outside of class without a pass. Students caught would be escorted to the 100’s or 500’s. After reporting by The Federalist, Principal Baxter clarified that this wasn’t actually school policy. This highlighted an essential rule not universally known among students: administrators – such as the principal or dean – are the only ones with the authority to search students.
Vice principal Mr. Ace described the policy, stating you can only be searched by administrators with probable cause. “If a student came to us and reported someone had a weapon or drugs, that would be a probable cause,” he said.
“We want to make sure that we are in alignment with district policy so if there is someone who has been searched without the proper paperwork or calls, let me know,” said Mr. Ace.”We have a responsibility as adults on campus to uphold district policy so once we are made aware of an infraction, it’s our job to rectify the situation.”
While non-administrative searches are no longer being reported, the problem hasn’t yet been fully resolved.
Some students believe staff, due to attempts to suppress undesirable behaviors, have become excessive. “Staff like to abuse their power,” said AMPA sophomore Sophia Shubow. “They like having authority and playing it over the kids, they’re so aggressive for no reason.”
Even if non-administrative staff do not actually search the students, there have been reported instances of them threatening to do so. “They threaten with that rule a lot and they don’t even have the authority to do it,” said Sophia.
SAS senior Marlena Gauff reports her experience. “It’s clear that certain staff members at this school prioritize maintaining authority over genuinely respecting students. They rely on power dynamics to control behavior.”
This is echoed by BITA senior Micah Lemons. “I think they do it sometimes just to prove a point, even when it’s not necessary.”
Other students report an opposing perspective. “If you get searched here, there’s probably a good reason for it,” said SAS senior Baron Ellis.
Marlena Gauff underscores students’ desires to be treated fairly. “Respect should go both ways, and when it doesn’t, it shows.”
