Clear or mesh backpacks required for all secondary students

BY JAVIER GIRIBET-VARGAS

The safety of our students and staff is our top priority, and the district has taken several steps to ensure schools are safe learning environments. Starting in the 2022-2023 school year, students in sixth through 12th grade will be required to use clear or mesh backpacks. Other bags will no longer be allowed.

Students will be able to carry in their backpack a non-clear pouch no larger than 5.5 inches by 8.5 inches to hold personal items, such as cellphones, money, and hygiene products.

Our decision stems from safety recommendations made by the district’s Safety Task Force and Internal Task Force as well as feedback from students, parents, and the community.

We acknowledge that clear or mesh backpacks alone will not eliminate safety concerns. This is merely one of several steps in the district’s comprehensive plan to better ensure student and staff safety.

The district has purchased and will distribute a free clear backpack to secondary students before the start of the school year.

All backpacks not meeting the criteria outlined above will be collected and kept in the school office where the student’s parent or guardian can pick them up.

For frequently asked questions, see below or visit dallasisd.org/backpacks