Dogs, police officers search CL schools in training exercise

Officials from Clear Lake schools and the Clear Lake Police Department report the first K-9 training exercise conducted at the school Tuesday, April 15, went off as planned.

High School Principal Chris Murphy said five officers with five dogs participated in the unannounced, but previously agreed upon, training exercise.  Four dogs and officers were in the building at one time during second period at the school, between 9:20 and 10:05 a.m. 

“All procedures were followed that were outlined in the letter that went home to parents,” said Murphy.  “Students did not react negatively in any way to having dogs and law enforcement in the building.   After the initial announcement that the building was in lockdown while the dogs and officers were in the building, teachers shared with me they conducted class as normal.”  

Murphy said the dogs checked all lockers, including gym locker rooms throughout the high school and middle school campus.  There was nothing discovered during the training exercise.

Police Chief Rex McChesney thanked the school district for the opportunity to conduct the training exercises, saying the district and police department are both committed to achieving the most secure learning atmosphere possible at the schools.