- Kennedale ISD
- Overview
Clear backpack policy
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KISD will improve the safety measures currently in place by requiring all students in grades 6-12 to use clear backpacks beginning with the 2022-2023 school year. Students participating in extracurricular activities will be permitted to carry non-transparent bags to store items related to their particular activity (i.e. band, athletics, etc.). All extracurricular activity bags must be stored in lockers or designated areas upon entry into school. While we understand that clear bags are not going to prevent all safety threats; they may be a deterrent for students bringing any inappropriate items to school and will further enhance our multi-measured approach to increasing school safety.
Clear bags and backpacks are just another safety measure in our comprehensive plan to increase safety and security in our schools as well as athletic and fine arts venues. KISD is also installing safety vestibules in schools, giving school personnel the ability to control who can access the building. We are also upgrading and increasing the number of surveillance cameras across the district.
Although we are living in a difficult time requiring difficult decisions from school districts, we must continue to be vigilant to protect the safety of our students and staff. We ask for everyone’s patience, understanding, and support as we look at ways to modify our practices and procedures to enhance our campuses and keep our students and staff safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Are clear totes, clear purses and transparent plastic bags allowed?
Yes. Clear totes, purses, and bags are allowed.
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Are company or trademark logos allowed on the front of the backpack?
Yes. Small company and school logos are allowed, in addition to small monograms, but large logos, monograms, or other visual design obstructions are not.
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Are elementary students required to use clear backpacks?
No. Only students in grades 6-12 will be required to use clear backpacks.
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Are lunch boxes permitted?
Yes. Non-transparent lunch boxes are permitted to be carried.
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Are mesh backpacks allowed?
No. Mesh backpacks are NOT allowed. Students are only allowed to use clear backpacks.
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Are stripes allowed on the backpack?
No. Stripes in any location are not allowed on the backpack.
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Are students allowed to have a protective Chromebook case/sleeve in their backpack, or are they required to carry their Chromebook separately?
Yes. A Chromebook inserted into a protective case/sleeve will be permitted in a backpack.
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Are transparent colored backpacks allowed?
No. Colored, transparent backpacks are not allowed. Only fully clear backpacks are permitted.
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Can I line the inside of the backpack?
No. Fabric, wallpaper or any other material that conceals the contents of the backpack is not permitted.
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Can multiple non-transparent bags be carried in schools?
Yes. Students must limit non-transparent bags (lunch kits, purses, pouches) to TWO bags, regardless of whether they are carried inside or outside the backpack.
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Can the backpack have colored straps?
Yes. The backpack may have colored straps.
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Can the backpack have mesh pockets?
Yes. Mesh side pockets are allowed on the backpack.
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Can the front pocket of the backpack have a mesh organizer?
Yes. A mesh organizer inside the front pocket is allowed.
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Is this an invasion of privacy?
We understand the concern regarding the privacy of certain items contained within backpacks. Students will be permitted to carry such items in no more than TWO non-transparent bags (lunch kits, purses, pouches), regardless of whether they are carried inside or outside the backpack.
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What are the size specifications for the clear backpack?
There are no size specifications for the clear backpack.
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Where do I purchase a clear backpack?
Online retailers such as Academy, Amazon, Walmart, and Target are currently carrying clear backpacks.
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Will athletic/spirit bags and instrument cases, which are not clear, be allowed on campus?
Students participating in an extracurricular activity are permitted to carry non-transparent bags to store items related to their particular activity (i.e. band, athletics, etc.). Upon entry into school, all extracurricular activity bags must be stored in lockers or designated areas.
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Will backpacks with padded backs be accepted?
No. The backpack must have clear visibility through all dimensions excluding the backpack bottom.