K9s FOR STUDENTS
THE PROGRAM
Byers K9 is proud to offer a complimentary security program specifically designed for Colorado schools, aimed at enhancing the safety and well-being of students and staff. This proactive initiative provides educational institutions with access to trained working canines capable of detecting narcotics, explosives, and firearms. By integrating K9 units into school security protocols, Byers K9 addresses a critical need for districts that may lack the resources or funding necessary to these tools. Byers K9 accepts all schools for students in Middle, Jr, and High School. This program is not intend for colleges or university's.
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Understanding the complexities and challenges associated with school safety, our program operates under a framework that, while distinct from law enforcement protocols, is designed to effectively mitigate risks and enhance security measures. The involvement of trained K9s not only serves as a deterrent but also equips school administrations with additional options for addressing potential threats. By prioritizing the protection of tomorrow's future, Byers K9 aims to make a meaningful difference in our communities, fostering an environment where students can learn and thrive without fear of violence or substance abuse. Through this dedicated program, we strive to collaborate with educational institutions to promote a culture of safety and awareness.
HOW DOES IT WORK
Byers K9 provides its services during standard school hours, ensuring that the educational process remains uninterrupted while prioritizing the safety of students and staff. We work in partnership with schools to create a schedule for K9 visits, typically conducting these engagements 1-2 times a month, though we can arrange for more frequent visits based on specific needs or available funding. While we generally plan our routes 2-4 weeks in advance to maximize our efficiency, we also maintain the flexibility to perform consecutive searches when necessary, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of our security efforts. This strategic and adaptable approach allows us to proactively address safety concerns within the school environment.
SAFETY OF STUDENTS
When conducting our searches, we utilize a passive approach to ensure the safety and comfort of students, which means we avoid conducting searches in close proximity to them. Locker searches are performed only when hallways are clear, and school staff can choose to place bags in the hallway or keep them in the classroom while relocating students to another area. Our primary goal is to protect students and offer them assistance, with the hope that our efforts provide an additional layer of support that helps prevent them from facing legal issues in the future.
THE CONTRABAND
When a K9 indicates on a locker, bag, or any object, our team will never touch, possess, or destroy any contraband. Instead, we place a marker, such as a sticky note, on the alerted item to signify the K9's indication. School staff then take over from there, determining the next steps in accordance with the school's policy.
NON-DISCLOUSER
Our team is committed to maintaining the privacy and well-being of everyone involved. We pledge to safeguard sensitive information relating to students, the school, and any related details, ensuring that such information is never shared without proper authorization.
PREPERATION
All team members of Byers K9 undergo comprehensive FBI background checks and must meet Colorado P.O.S.T. standards, along with additional background requirements. Handlers complete a rigorous training course and must pass both standard certification and company-specific certification. To ensure ongoing proficiency, handlers are required to maintain a minimum of 20 hours of training per month, while law enforcement K9 handlers must complete at least 16 hours. We are dedicated to excellence and aim to set the highest standards in the field.
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All K9s are carefully chosen by our partner, Complete Canine Training, and imported into the states to uphold our rigorous standards. We focus on collaborating with top-tier K9s to ensure we deliver our best performance. The breeds selected vary based on their intended roles, encompassing not only traditional military and law enforcement K9s but also versatile breeds like Labradors, Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, and German Shorthaired Pointers, allowing us to effectively meet diverse operational requirements.
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At Byers K9, we're always on the lookout for ways to up our game! We tap into a wealth of articles, stories, and media from law enforcement, military, and other K9 teams to learn from their experiences. It’s all about taking what others have discovered and using that knowledge to enhance our training and work. By sharing insights and lessons learned from the field, we keep evolving and ensuring that our K9s get the best preparation possible!
THE NEXT STEP
DONATE
Want to support our program? Here’s how you can pitch in! We’re looking to reach every corner of Colorado and stay active in schools, and you can help us do just that. Option to be listed on our donation page, which showcases your support and commitment to our mission. Your contribution can make a real difference as we work to expand our presence!