I understand your comments and plan to put a lock on the enclosure for all future animals in my classroom. I think that bringing that part up over and over is kind of beating a dead horse. What is done is done and others should learn from my mistake.

As for the rats having no lid, I don't understand the issue. They can't scale the tank and the snake can find them. I don't understand how to make it so he can get to them, but also enclose them...or is your issue a different one?

The rats are in a room where no kids can get to and is locked at all times. The door is 15-20 feet from my classroom door and the intent is for the snake to be able to find them, but for the kids to not have access. This has been discussed with administration, maintenance and the cleaning crew. Also, the temp is set by the district and can't be changed, but hot spots are being used.

Do you guys think that there is a decent chance he would go down the stairs despite me making water, food and hot spots available? I realize that he is capable, but it seems like such a big effort when he could hopefully smell the rats nearby.