Let's Make It Clear

A new district-wide protocol for the 2024-2025 school year.

Clear Backpacks for the 2024-2025 School Year

As part of our ongoing efforts to prioritize the safety and security of our schools, Hoke County Schools (HCS) is implementing additional protocols and procedures for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year. We know it takes a team effort of our staff, students, and parents working together to provide the safest environment possible. One of the new safety protocols is the requirement that all students who choose to carry a backpack must use a clear backpack, starting this upcoming school year.

FAQ

• What are the size specifications for the clear backpacks?
• Are mesh backpacks allowed?
• Can the backpack have mesh pockets?
• Can the front pocket of the backpack have a mesh organizer?
• Will backpacks with padded backs be accepted?
• Are transparent colored backpacks allowed?
• Are stripes allowed on the backpack?
• Can the backpack have colored straps?
• Are leather reinforcements on the corners of the backpack allowed?
• Are company or trademarked logos allowed on the front of the backpack?
• Will athletic/spirit bags and instrument cases that are not clear be allowed on campus?
• Are lunch boxes permitted?
• What about students that must carry medical items/equipment to school?
• Are clear totes, clear purses, and transparent plastic bags allowed?
• What about privacy?

What are the size specifications for the clear backpacks?

There are no size specifications for the clear backpack.

However, please consider the dimensions of school-issued Chromebooks. These devices are 12" x 8" x 1".

Are mesh backpacks allowed?

No, mesh backpacks are not allowed. Students are only permitted to use clear backpacks (see example).

Can the backpack have mesh pockets?

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

Can the front pocket of the backpack have a mesh organizer?

Yes, a mesh organizer inside the front pocket is allowed.

Will backpacks with padded backs be accepted?

No, backpacks must have clear visibility through all dimensions excluding the backpack bottom.

Are transparent colored backpacks allowed?

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

Are stripes allowed on the backpack?

No designs that hinder the ability to view the contents of the backpack are allowed.

Can the backpack have colored straps?

Yes, the backpack my have colored straps.

Are leather reinforcements on the corners of the backpack allowed?

Yes, leather reinforcements in the corners are permitted.

Are company or trademarked logos allowed on the front of the backpack?

Yes, small company and school logos are allowed, but large logos, monograms, or other visual obstructions are not.

Will athletic/spirit bags and instrument cases that are not clear be allowed on campus?

All gym or spirit bags must be in compliance with the clear backpack requirements. The only exceptions permitted are:

• Sport-specific carrying case for athletic equipment (ex: baseball or softball bat packs).
• Instrument-specific carrying case for band equipment.

Bags that are exceptions should be stored in designated areas upon the student's arrival, as directed by instructors, staff, and administration and are subject to search.

Are lunch boxes permitted?

Yes, however these lunch boxes are subject to be searched. Non-transparent lunch boxes of a standard size are permitted to be carried.

What about students that must carry medical items/equipment to school?

An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection.

Are clear totes, clear purses, and transparent plastic bags allowed?

Yes, clear totes, purses, and bags are allowed.

What about privacy?

We understand the concern regarding the privacy of certain items contained within backpacks. Students will be permitted to carry such items in a small makeup pouch or purse. Any non-transparent pouch, purse, or lunch bag should be no larger than 6" x 9" x 5" and will be subject to search.