Meet Zeke
Zeke is a German Shorthaired Pointer who was born in the Netherlands on November 6, 2024. His favorite toy is a ball on a rope and his favorite game is fetch. His handler is named Pete.
Canine Detection Program
FCPS Canine Detection Program Overview
Program Overview
The Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) Canine Detection Program is a safety initiative administered by the Office of Safety and Security (OSS) to support a safe and secure learning environment across the division. The program utilizes a specially trained canine detection team—consisting of a certified handler and trained detection dog—to identify the presence of firearms, firearm components, ammunition, and illegal drugs in accordance with applicable laws and FCPS policies.
This program enhances FCPS’ layered security approach by adding a mobile and flexible detection capability that complements existing safety measures such as weapon screening systems, security personnel, and emergency response protocols.
The canine detection team may be deployed for preventive safety sweeps, response to credible threats, investigation of suspicious items, and during large school events to provide reassurance and deter unsafe behavior. These sweeps are administrative and safety-focused, not directed at individual students.
The FCPS detection canine is trained exclusively for detection purposes and is not used for law enforcement activities such as apprehension or patrol. The presence of the canine also supports positive engagement with students and reinforces the division’s commitment to maintaining a safe, welcoming school environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
The program is designed to enhance school safety by detecting firearms, ammunition, weapon-related items, and illegal drugs, while supporting prevention and rapid response to safety concerns.
The canine is trained to detect:
- Firearms
- Firearm components
- Ammunition
- Illegal drugs
No. The canine is strictly trained for detection only and is non-aggressive. It is not used for patrol, apprehension, intimidation, or crowd control.
Canine teams may be used for:
- Preventive safety sweeps of school property
- Responding to credible safety concerns or threat assessments
- Investigating suspicious or unattended items
- Supporting response after safety-related incidents
- Providing deterrence and reassurance during large events
No. Canine detection teams are not used to search individuals. Their use is limited to areas and property for safety purposes.
Requests may be made by:
- The Chief of Safety and Security or designee
- School principals or designated administrators
- The FCPS Security Operations Center
The canine allows for quick, targeted sweeps in areas where fixed screening systems are not practical, helping address concerns efficiently while minimizing disruption to instruction.
The canine may operate in various locations, including:
- Hallways and classrooms
- Common areas and courtyards
- Parking lots and outdoor spaces
- Athletic facilities and event venues
- Portable classrooms and large gathering spaces
The FCPS Office of Safety and Security oversees the program, including training standards, legal compliance, and deployment coordination.
Canine teams are trained and certified alongside Fairfax County Police Department to meet established standards, with handlers responsible for maintaining readiness, proper care, and documentation in accordance with OSS guidelines.
Yes. The program aligns with regional training standards and may provide limited mutual aid to external agencies when authorized, while prioritizing FCPS needs.One of the intents of the program is to avoid the need for police interaction and more quickly return the students to a learning environment.
In addition to enhancing safety, the canine serves as a visible, reassuring presence and can support positive student engagement and safety awareness efforts.
