Apparent recording device found in Fort Smith girls’ school change room

An apparent recording device has been found in the girls’ change room at Fort Smith’s Paul William Kaeser High School, authorities say, prompting an RCMP investigation.

A contractor cleaning the school’s ventilation ducts discovered the device on November 1, the South Slave Divisional Education Council (SSDEC) said on Wednesday.

School staff were notified the following day and immediately contacted RCMP, the school body stated, and police have since opened an investigation. 

SSDEC said it’s not clear when the device was placed in the change room, whether it was operational or whether any recordings were made. The type of device found was not stated.

Following the discovery, both PWK and Joseph Burr Tyrrell Elementary School in Fort Smith were searched. No additional devices were found, SSDEC stated.

The NWT government said it had been notified of the investigation and is working with SSDEC to support the community. 

“This is a very serious and concerning situation for students, families, staff and the community,” the GNWT said in a statement. 

Students seeking support are invited to speak with their school’s wellness worker or contact the Fort Smith Community Counselling Program.

SSDEC said it is cooperating with the RCMP investigation and will provide further updates as information is confirmed and can be released.  

The Town of Fort Smith, in a statement of its own, said it had “conducted thorough inspections of all public washrooms and change rooms” at its rec centre and arena without finding any suspicious devices.

“The safety, security, and privacy of our residents and facility users remain a top priority. The Town takes matters of this nature very seriously and is committed to maintaining safe and welcoming public spaces for everyone,” the town stated.

“We understand that this incident may raise concerns within our community and wish to reassure residents that we have taken proactive steps to ensure the safety and privacy of those using our municipal facilities.”