This school year, students, staff, and visitors of Wilson County Schools will notice two new members of the security team: K-9 Zander and K-9 Zena. These black Labrador Retrievers are the latest additions to the ‘Paws on Patrol’ program, a security initiative first launched last year by the Lebanon Special School District (LSSD).
K-9 Zander and K-9 Zena, who come from the same litter, have been specially trained for firearm detection. Both will be handled by veteran deputies chosen after a highly competitive interview process. Deputy Chad Vance will be paired with K-9 Zander, while Deputy Paul McPeak will handle K-9 Zena. Both deputies completed their certification training from Global K-9 Protection of Opelika (AL) and are now ready to serve and protect on school campuses across the district.
The addition of these two canines is not just about enhancing security but also about creating a positive and reassuring presence in schools. The K-9 units will be integral in prevention, mitigation, and education efforts, ensuring that students and stakeholders feel safe and supported. The benefits they bring extend beyond their ability to detect firearms; they also reduce stress, improve morale, and foster stronger relationships within the school community.
Wilson County Sheriff Robert Bryan expressed his confidence in the new team members: “The safety of our students and staff is our top priority. The addition of K-9 Zander and K-9 Zena to our ‘Paws on Patrol’ program represents our commitment to proactive security measures. These canines, along with their dedicated handlers, will play a crucial role in not only enhancing our detection capabilities but also in building trust and a sense of safety across our school campuses.”
K-9 Zander and K-9 Zena will join K-9 Blaze and Cpl. Dusty Burton, who have been serving the LSSD with distinction since the program’s inception. Together, these teams are poised to make a significant impact in maintaining a secure environment for all students and staff within the Wilson County School District.
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