Special to Iredell Free News

The Mooresville Graded School District and the Mooresville Police Department have implemented additional measures aimed at enhancing safety and security within the community.

This strategic partnership will add an additional K-9 team to the school district.

MGSD officials and the MPD recognize the importance of fostering a secure and supportive learning environment. This K-9 team will be the second one to be deployed to schools within the district. By working alongside school resource officers, the K-9s provide an additional layer of security and deterrence.

Key highlights of the ongoing collaboration include:

Increased Security Presence: Specially trained K-9 teams will be present in and around school premises, contributing to a visible and proactive security presence.

Drug Detection: The K-9 teams will continue to assist in detecting and deterring the presence of illegal substances within school grounds, contributing to a drug-free educational environment.

Explosives/Firearm Detection: The K-9 teams will assist in detecting and deterring the presence of explosives and firearms within school grounds, contributing to a safer educational environment.

Community Outreach Programs: The collaboration extends beyond security measures to include educational initiatives. Officers and K-9 teams will promote positive interactions between law enforcement, K-9 teams, and students.

MPD Chief Ron Campurciani expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration.

“This partnership is a testament to our commitment to ensuring the safety of our community, especially our students. The addition of another K-9 team will strengthen our ability to respond to evolving security challenges and provide a reassuring presence within our schools,” he said.

MGSD Superintendent Jason Gardner stressed that that the safety and well-being of students are the district’s top priorities.

“This collaboration with the Mooresville Police Department will enhance our overall security measures and contribute to creating a safe learning environment for everyone,” he said.

Both organizations believe their strong collaboration on numerous fronts serves as a model for other communities seeking innovative approaches to school safety. The joint efforts of law enforcement and education professionals underscore their shared dedication to maintaining a secure and supportive environment within the community.