The MSD of Decatur Township is proud to introduce “Hawk,” who will be working with his handler, Officer Kentrell Harris, throughout our schools.

(January 5, 2026) – INDIANAPOLIS – The MSD of Decatur Township is proud to announce that a new K9 officer, a black Labrador retriever named Hawk, has joined the team. Hawk and his handler, Officer Kentrell Harris, will be on duty throughout Decatur Township Schools, reinforcing the district’s strong commitment to safety and well-being. Superintendent Dr. Scott Collins emphasized that “we are dedicated to the safety and well-being of every member of our school community,” adding that the addition of K9 Hawk strengthens efforts to create a secure, welcoming environment where students can learn and thrive. 

Chief Terance Smith echoed that sentiment, sharing that it “makes my heart proud to know that Officer Harris and K9 Hawk are representing Decatur so well,” and noting the excitement around their presence in the district as they make a meaningful impact on safety for students, families, and visitors. 

Adopted as a rescue dog, Hawk comes to the district by way of the Humane Society of Hamilton County and Redemption Ranch K9 Rescue, where he completed intensive K9 training alongside Officer Harris and graduated with honors on December 16, 2025. Dr. Collins also noted that Hawk will be “an invaluable partner for our staff, providing an added layer of support in keeping our schools safe and enhancing our overall safety initiatives.”

About “Hawk”

Hawk is a fun-loving, affectionate, and capable dog. He brings energy and enthusiasm into any room he enters, and loves to be hugged. He is also very skilled as an officer, and switches into work mode immediately when commanded. Hawk is trained in detection of controlled substances (drugs), firearms, and ballistic related evidence. He is capable of locating these controlled substances and weapons that are concealed, buried or hidden in places such as bags, lockers, and vehicles. His detection work is methodical and deliberate, showing sustained interest and a distinct alert behavior upon locating target odors. Hawk is also trained in human scent tracking and trailing as well. 

Officer Harris reports that, “K9 Hawk has a stable, social and friendly temperament while maintaining a strong and reliable work drive. When not actively engaged in assigned duties, Hawk is approachable, well-mannered and comfortable interacting appropriately with students, staff and other officers. He demonstrates confidence in various environments and remains calm and controllable during non-working situations.”

School Safety

The addition of a K9 presence is one of several strategies Decatur Township Schools uses to enhance safety, alongside enhanced video surveillance, the Decatur Township School Police, StopIt anonymous reporting, and the Raptor safe visitation system. Assistant Superintendent Chris Gearlds emphasized the impact of K9 Hawk, stating, “We are proud to welcome K9 Hawk as the newest member of the Decatur Township Police Department. His addition strengthens our commitment to maintaining a safe and secure learning environment for every student and staff member,” noting that Hawk’s daily presence on campuses and his ability to detect potentially harmful items further support keeping schools safe places for teaching and learning.

Welcome to Decatur Township, Hawk!! 

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About MSD Decatur Township

The MSD of Decatur Township is student invested, community connected. Decatur Township prioritizes student learning, safety and customer service, fostering a support system for our families. Located on the southwest side of Indianapolis, Decatur Township is proud to serve thousands of elementary, middle, and high school students and families. The district vision is Preparing Students to be Tomorrow Ready. Together, we are DECATUR PROUD! Learn more at www.decaturproud.org. 

MEDIA CONTACT:

Emily LeMay, Director of Student & Family Engagement 

MSD of Decatur Township

elemay@decaturproud.org

317-856-5265 

(December 22, 2025) – INDIANAPOLIS – Decatur Central High School is excited to share that Desiree Rojas has been selected as a 2026 Lilly Endowment Community Scholar for Marion County, administered by the Indianapolis Foundation. Scholars are selected based on outstanding academic achievement, leadership, character, and dedication to serving their community.

Desiree Rojas is the daughter of Neisy and Heriberto Rojas, and has attended Decatur Township Schools for grades K-12. Desiree has been an active member of the DCHS Marching Band, serving as Drum Major this school year. She has demonstrated strong community activism and service throughout her tenure at DCHS. Desiree is in the process of finalizing her college selection and plans to major in political science.

About Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Process - Marion County

Each Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship provides full tuition, required fees and a special allocation of up to $900 per year for required books and required equipment for four years. Students participate in a rigorous nomination and review process, and we are proud to share that final selections are made by a diverse committee of civic leaders, community advocates, and community foundation board members. Their collective perspectives help ensure a fair and community-centered celebration of student excellence.

About Indianapolis Foundation

The Indianapolis Foundation, established on January 5, 1916, is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and a trusted civic partner dedicated to strengthening Indianapolis. For more than a century, the foundation has worked alongside residents, nonprofits, and public and private partners to build a community where everyone can thrive. Guided by the Equity Imperative 2030 strategic plan, the Indianapolis Foundation focuses on addressing the systems that shape opportunity — housing, economic mobility, health, and the environment — through grantmaking, community leadership, and advocacy, continuing its long tradition of investing in people and advancing a more just, connected, and welcoming Indianapolis.

About MSD Decatur Township

The MSD of Decatur Township is student invested, community connected. Decatur Township prioritizes student learning, safety and customer service, fostering a support system for our families. Located on the southwest side of Indianapolis, Decatur Township is proud to serve thousands of elementary, middle, and high school students and families. The district vision is Preparing Students to be Tomorrow Ready. Together, we are DECATUR PROUD! Learn more at www.decaturproud.org. 

MEDIA CONTACT:

Emily LeMay, Director of Student & Family Engagement 

elemay@decaturproud.org

317-856-5265 

Happy Holidays from MSD of Decatur Township! We wish our entire community a season filled with joy, rest, and togetherness.