Harford County officials are asking for input on a proposed policy for public school students that would require them to store all backpacks in lockers throughout the school day. Only students with special circumstances would be allowed to carry small, transparent bags.

The proposed policy introduced by school board President Aaron Poynton on Monday, would permit middle and high school students to carry small, non-transparent bags no bigger than 4.5 inches by 8.5 inches for “hygiene purposes.” Bags and cases used for athletic gear and musical instruments would also have to be stored in a locker or designated storage area.

Students with medical, health or disability-related needs, or those in buildings without lockers, could apply for permission to carry bags throughout the day, but the bag would need to be transparent if it is larger than 4.5 inches by 8.5 inches.

If passed, Poynton said the policy would be implemented at the start of next school year. Parents and students are encouraged to provide input through the “Public Input on Policy” tab on the school board’s website. The public input period will close at 11:59 p.m., April 11.

The school district has been operating without a bag policy since 2021, when the former policy was repealed to allow students to carry backpacks all day in order to safely transport school-issued electronic devices.

The proposal follows a months-long push from parents and students to install metal detectors and mandate transparent bags for all students in all schools after a September fatal shooting at Joppatowne High School. After the shooting, Joppatowne students were temporarily prohibited from bringing backpacks or large purses to school since there were not enough lockers.

The school system in September implemented a clear-bag policy for spectators at all athletic events sanctioned by the district.

Poynton said the school board will wait for community feedback on the proposed policy before taking action. He said the board would be open to other options, such as mandating clear backpacks for all students.

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