A search of a student’s person or property may start as a reasonable search but can quickly escalate into an unreasonable one. The case study “Walkabout” at the beginning of Chapter 6 presents the issue of searching students. Additionally, the issue of drugs (even over-the-counter drugs) on school property is a current problem that should be addressed.
For this discussion, if your last name begins with A through M, you will present an argument in full support of the search of Tasha’s property and person. If your last name begins with N through Z, you will present an argument that the search of Tasha’s property and person was unreasonable. (John Doe would argue in support of searching Tasha’s person and property.) Both arguments should keep in mind: Tasha is most likely violating school rules by skipping math class and hiding behind some shrubberies. But, does this justify the search of her purse? Does a tip from an “unreliable” source that Tasha is selling pills during lunch justify a search of her purse? Of her brassiere?
-
CaseStudyWalkabout.doc