Administrative Procedure: 358
INTERVIEW OF STUDENTS
Background
The District recognizes the importance of cooperating with other agencies who have responsibilities which relate to students. These responsibilities may require agencies such as the police, public health or social service agencies to interview students in schools.
Police officers, social workers and public health nurses in the course of their duties, may find it necessary to visit a school and interview certain students. While cooperation with other agency personnel in such interview requests is expected, schools have an obligation to ensure that both students’ and parents’ rights are respected.
Procedures
Requests by the police, social workers or public health nurses to interview students on school premises are subject to the following:
1. Students are not be interviewed on school premises except in the following circumstances:
1.1 In cases where child abuse is suspected, the police and/or social worker may interview the student under the legislative mandate for the protection of children;
1.2 In an emergent situation where there is no question of compromising the student’s legal rights and where immediate information is necessary for quick action.
2. If a student is interviewed, it is to be considered essential that either a parent or guardian be present at the interview, except as noted in 1.
3. Teachers are not to take part in these interviews.
4. Where a police officer insists on interviewing a student immediately and on school premises, the Principal or designate is to:
4.1 Request the police officer to delay the interview until such time as the parent/guardian can be present;
4.2 If this request is refused, then the Principal or designate is to ensure that the student’s parents are contacted immediately;
4.3 If parents are unavailable, the Principal is to sit in on the interview.
4.4 Consult with the District’s solicitor if required.
Reference: Sections 6, 7, 20, 22, 26, 65, 85 School Act
Youth Justice Act
Youth Criminal Justice Act (Canada)