Clear Backpack Protocol

It must be backpack-sized or smaller; the student should be able to carry it easily.

No. Mesh backpacks are not allowed. Students are permitted to only use clear backpacks.


 

Yes. Mesh side pockets are allowed on the backpack (see example).

Yes. A mesh organizer inside the front pocket is allowed (see example).

No. Backpack must have clear visibility through all dimensions excluding the backpack bottom (see example).

No. Colored, transparent backpacks are not allowed (see example). Only fully clear backpacks are permitted.

No. Stripes in any location are not allowed on the backpack (see example).

Yes. The backpack may have colored straps (see example).

Yes. Leather reinforcements on the corners are permitted. They are not to exceed two inches of coverage on either side of the bag.

Yes. Small company and school logos are allowed (see example), in addition to small monograms, but logos blocking the items within the bag, monograms or other visual design obstructions are not.

Yes, however, these bags must be stored as soon as the student arrives at school. They must be placed securely in fine arts classrooms or athletic locker rooms as designated by school administrators.

Yes. Non-transparent lunch bags no larger than approximately 6” x 9” x 5” (see example below) are permitted to be carried.

Yes. Students must limit non-transparent bags (lunch bags, purses, pouches) to two bags (see examples), regardless of whether they are carried inside or outside the clear backpack.

Yes. Clear totes, purses, cinch bags, and bags are allowed (see examples).

Yes. A laptop or Chromebook inserted into a laptop sleeve will be permitted in a backpack. However, the sleeve is subject to search.

No. Fabric, wallpaper or any other material that conceals the contents of the backpack is not permitted.

Online retailers such as Amazon are currently carrying clear backpacks. 

No. According to current United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) research, chemicals released by plastic backpacks are not stored in the human body, so routine, low-level exposures like touching plastic products is unlikely to have long-term negative health impacts. Additional information can be found on the CDC/ATSDR website.

We understand the concern regarding the privacy of certain items students carry in backpacks, such as inhalers or hygiene products. Students will be permitted to carry such items in a small pouch or purse within the backpack. Any non-transparent pouch, purse, or lunch bag should be no larger than approximately 6” x 9” x 5” and may be subject to search.

An exception will be made for medically necessary items, though carrying cases are subject to search. The student must receive prior approval from the School Administration. Please contact your school nurse or counselor to begin that process.

No. Staff are not required to carry clear backpacks, but are urged to be aware of and attuned to students’ requirements. Staff items remain subject to search. 

No, though visitors and volunteers are subject to search, and need to follow proper entry procedures for all schools. Additionally, RPS will still follow the protocols that have been outlined for all RPS School and Athletic Events for entry screening and attendance.

No, the clear backpack policy does not replace metal detectors in our middle and high schools. Clear backpacks are an additional mitigation measure to ensure a safe and secure school environment.