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Dallas ISD implements clear backpack policy for 2023-2024 school year
In our ongoing effort to ensure safer schools, Dallas ISD will require clear backpacks for all students in grades K-12 for the 2023-2024 school year. This requirement does not apply to pre-K students.
As an additional option, mesh backpacks will be acceptable, however clear ones are preferred. Students may carry a small, nonclear pouch in their backpack to hold personal items, such as cellphones, money, and hygiene products. To support families, each student will be provided a durable clear backpack at no cost. Parents may also purchase the preferred clear backpack, or the acceptable mesh backpack, for their students.
A clear backpack policy alone does not ensure complete security. This proactive measure is just one of several updates to enhance student and campus safety. As a reminder, Dallas ISD’s Comprehensive Safety Plan is available at dallasisd.org/safety. We encourage everyone to visit the district’s website and social media channels for the latest updates.
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Will the District be providing clear backpacks?
Yes, the District will provide clear backpacks for those students that request one. The District will not provide mesh backpacks.
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Can students use mesh backpacks?
Yes.
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Can students decorate or place stickers on their backpacks?
No. The only thing allowed on the backpacks, clear or mesh, is the student’s name.
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Does the clear backpack policy apply to all students?
Yes, all students in grades K-12.
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What about PreK students?
This requirement does not apply to Pre-K students, therefore the district will not issue a clear backpack to Pre-K students.
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Will students in extracurricular activities be allowed to use other types of bags or cases for their extracurricular items?
Yes. Extracurricular sponsors, coaches, and/or directors will work with their campus administration for students to have their bags, such as duffle bags or band instrument cases, searched and then left in the appropriate location each morning.
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Will students be able to store personal items in a non-transparent pouch or small bag?
Students will be able to carry in their backpacks a pouch no larger than 5.5 inches by 8.5 inches to hold personal items, such as cell phones, money, and hygiene products.
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Do students have to have clear lunch bags or lunch boxes?
No. However, lunch bags and lunch boxes are subject to search.
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What happens if the clear backpack provided by the District is damaged or misplaced and can no longer be used?
The parent/guardian will be responsible for the purchase of a backpack that meets the District's policy.
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Where can replacement backpacks be purchased?
Unfortunately, the District will not be offering replacement backpacks for purchase. The District has a policy in place that outlines which backpacks are considered acceptable for use. We recommend taking a look at it to ensure you choose a suitable replacement.
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Can the clear backpack have mesh pockets?
Yes, mesh pockets are permitted on the backpack, as long as staff are able to clearly see through the bag.
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Can the front pocket of the clear backpack have a mesh organizer?
Yes, a mesh organizer is permitted in the backpack, as long as staff are able to clearly see through the bag.
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Will backpacks with padded backs be accepted?
Backpacks must have clear visibility through all dimensions excluding the backpack bottom.
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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 the backpack have colored straps?
Yes. The backpack may have colored straps.
