K9 Safety Team
In order for students to thrive, they must feel safe at school. District 86 continues to invest in safety measures that will help us meet that need and enhance our school environment.
The safety of our students and staff remains our highest priority. To support this priority in the 2025-26 school year and beyond, we have welcomed certified, specially trained dogs at both high school campuses. The dogs are trained to detect the scent of firearms and explosives, and will discreetly alert their certified handlers if a suspicious odor is identified.
These dogs are bred and trained to operate safely in school settings, and handlers complete extensive training to work effectively with their canine partners. The dogs selected for this program are known for their calm disposition. They are not attack dogs and are trained not to bark or interact with individuals beyond their handler while on duty. When off-duty or resting, the dogs may interact with small groups in a limited capacity as approved by their handler.
At Hinsdale Central, we will be welcoming Sammy and its handler Justin Simmons. Sammy is a Yellow Labrador Retriever.
At Hinsdale South, we will be welcoming Nitro and its handler Kyle Vanden Plas. Nitro is a German Shorthaired Pointer.
K9 Safety Team FAQ
Why is District 86 implementing a K9 team at each school?
The dogs will provide an additional layer to the school district’s comprehensive safety and security program. The K9 team will be able to provide continuous surveillance throughout the school day to help mitigate against the threat of someone bringing a concealed firearm to school.
What breed of dog will serve as part of the team?
Hinsdale Central will have a Yellow Labrador Retriever. Hinsdale South will have a German Shorthaired Pointer.
Will the dog bark if it finds something?
No, the dog will not bark. If the dog detects a possible scent related to a firearm or explosive, the dog will discreetly notify the handler.
Will the dog bite?
No. The dog is trained to be calm and professional. Any dog that does not meet the rigorous training protocols and certifications will not be put into service.
What if I am allergic to or afraid of dogs?
District 86 will work with the student or staff member to best address that particular individual’s concern. Students and staff should contact D86 Director of Security, Geoff Cooker, gcooker@hinsdale86.org, if they have allergy concerns or are afraid of dogs.
How is the dog treated?
The dog is treated well. The K9 team is truly a team with the dog living and working with its handler. The dog has rest periods and breaks built into the schedule.
Does the dog get breaks?
Yes, the K9 team will generally work 45 minutes and then take a 15-minute break.
How will people know if the dog is working?
Like many service dogs, the dog will wear a vest that indicates the dog is working. When the dog is taking a break or resting, the dog’s vest may be removed to indicate that it is break time.
Can I pet the dog?
We kindly ask that you do not pet the dog. These dogs are specially trained and are working while they're on campus. Just like we stay focused during class, the dogs need to stay focused on their important job.
When will the K9 teams work?
The K9 teams will work throughout the school day. The teams will also work during select extracurricular events and activities.
Is K9 detection effective?
K9 detection has an established track record of success in highly populated settings as part of a comprehensive safety mitigation approach.
Will the Weapons Detection Systems (WDS) be operational?
The Weapons Detection System serves as a deterrent to prevent individuals from bringing unwanted weapons to school. It does not need to be deployed daily to serve this purpose. It can be used periodically, unannounced, at the beginning of a school day and/or athletic event throughout the school year to achieve the purpose of a deterrent.