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Shortly after 1:30 p.m. on Friday, Principal Ron Gonzalez issued a lockdown for staff and students at the schools, while K-9 units from Mount Vernon, Harrison and Yonkers were brought in to investigate the presence of illicit drugs and narcotics.
The dogs canvassed the entire school, including public and common areas, as well as student lockers. No drugs or illegal narcotics were found during the search.
“These types of drills are important for both our school and law enforcement, as they reinforce safety procedures and prepare students, staff and the community for an event that threatens the safety and well being of our students and staff,” Superintendent Kenneth Hamilton said.
Hamilton added that while this was the first drill of its nature, it will not be the last as he hopes to remind the community that “the school district takes the health and safety of our students and staff very seriously.”
He noted that he needs the help of parents at home to reinforce the dangers of drugs, and that this will be a topic teachers will address in the classroom.
“We have a zero tolerance policy when it comes to the possession and, or, use of drugs and other narcotics on school grounds,” he said. “I am determined to ensure the safety and security and well being of our student population and will work aggressively to remove drugs from Mount Vernon High School.
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