Virginia district to implement clear backpack policy in August

A Virginia district has taken steps to “enhance campus safety” by requiring all students to use clear backpacks, starting in the next academic year.

“The policy will apply to all Tazewell County Public Schools students in Pre-K to 12th grades at school or school-sponsored events where backpacks are allowed,” reported Nexstar’s WVNS 59News.

The district, which enrolls more than 5,000 students across 16 schools, said every backpack must be clear and transparent made of plastic or PVC material.

“The main compartment and any additional pockets must be see-through to allow for visual inspection of contents,” its website noted, adding any solid-colored, mesh, partially covered or tinted backpacks would be rejected under the new policy.

Textbooks, electronic devices and personal items should all be carried in these backpacks, along with “school-related supplies such as pencils, folders, and calculators,” according to the district.

“Students may carry a small non-clear pouch inside their clear backpack for personal hygiene items (e.g., feminine products, deodorant) or small valuables,” the policy read, noting this pouch should be up to 5 inches by 8 inches and could be inspected “if necessary.”

“Students found in violation of this policy will be required to return non-compliant backpacks to their vehicle or have a parent/guardian retrieve them.”

If students continue violating these requirements, they could face “progressive disciplinary action,” the district warned.

However, the policy allows for exceptions if children have documented medical needs requiring “a non-clear backpack or medical bag.”

An approved 504 plan or individualized education program (IEP) could also facilitate alternative arrangements for attendees, according to the website.

‘Tougher for students to conceal things that they shouldn’t have’

As previously reported by The Lion, more districts nationwide are implementing clear backpack initiatives to address concerns over school safety.

In New Mexico, five middle schools provided thousands of clear backpacks to their students in January as part of a new security initiative.

“Clear backpacks will make it tougher for students to conceal things that they shouldn’t have, like weapons,” said Dr. Gabriella Blakey, district superintendent of Albuquerque Public Schools.

This district also spent more than $60 million on fencing, cameras and alarms to update its security infrastructure, officials noted.

“It’s everybody’s worst nightmare,” said Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman. “There is nothing more dangerous than just the idea of a child on a school campus with a gun. And it’s happening far too often.”