Can my son/daughter refuse to give consent to search their backpack/locker?

Yes. Note that the school may have a policy about their security officers searching their lockers. Their backpacks, however, should be off-limits without consent or a warrant. BOTTOM LINE: We want to teach our children and others to respect and cooperate with law enforcement. Most officers are out there to protect and help us. Having said that, it is perfectly fine to know your rights and protect yourselves and your families/friends whenever faced with a situation that could cause trouble in the future.