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.
