Surprise school-wide search Monday uncovers no guns, but two knives and illegal drugs

After back-to-back incidents of students at Cairo High School being in possession of guns on campus last Thursday and Friday, school administrators conducted a surprise search of students’ book bags Monday morning.

The search was conducted by school system personnel, but was observed by members of the Grady County School System Police Department, the Cairo Police Department and the Grady County Sheriff’s Office.

The search commenced at approximately 8:30 a.m. and students were instructed to place their book bags in the hallway and then they were kept in their classrooms until the inspection was completed.

Grady County Schools superintendent Dr. Kermit Gilliard alerted parents via social media as the search began. “This is a step towards being proactive in dealing with recent events that have taken place. We will do all that we can to keep our campus safe, weapons or illegal drugs will not be tolerated,” Dr. Gilliard posted Monday.

As a result of the search, no other firearms were found on campus but school officials say they discovered two knives, a set of brass knuckles, vape oil, and marijuana.

Dr. Gilliard reported Tuesday that four high school students who were in possession of banned weapons and illegal drugs will face a disciplinary tribunal.

“We want our parents and students to know that random searches will continue this school year, including the use of dogs during a search. Anything illegal found on a student or in their backpack will result in charges being filed,” Dr. Gilliard said.

“Safety is our first priority. Learning will not take place if our students do not feel safe. We thank the members of our school system police as well as the Cairo Police Department and Grady County Sheriff’s Office for being on campus and available had we needed them for assistance. Working together, we will make our school and community a safer place,” the superintendent added.

Cairo High School principal Chris Lokey said that while it is unfortunate that such searches are necessary, he would take whatever action necessary to maintain a safe environment for students at C.H.S.

“School safety is our first priority for all Grady County Schools and we will continue to be vigilant and proactive in enforcing the ban on weapons and illegal drugs on our campus,” principal Lokey said.