DOUGLAS, Ariz. — Students at Douglas High School will no longer be able to have backpacks when they return from fall break.
The change comes after the school was placed on lockdown following a weapon threat last week. Someone was arrested the next day, according to Douglas Police.
It's all part of the new clear bag policy district officials implemented as a safety measure.
Starting Monday, Oct. 21, backpacks will not be allowed on campus. Students will be able to use a clear backpack, clear tote, or plastic storage bag.
The Douglas Unified School District shared examples online on Oct. 11 of what they say are approved and non-approved bags.
The Board held a special meeting on Oct. 13 to address concerns and clear up confusion about the policy. After two and a half hours, the board unanimously voted to implement a policy that obligates most students to have a clear backpack, or no backpack at all. Students who arrive at school with a regular backpack will be subject to search, and it will be confiscated until the end of the school day.
Athletes will be allowed to bring their team bags but those may also be scanned or searched.
The school district shared a new graphic on their Facebook page on Wednesday to address the confusion:
The board said administration needs time to formulate a more definite policy, and they are interested in forming a committee on school safety.
