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Connally Independent School District

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Clear Backpack Policy

Clear Backpack Policy

In an effort to improve safety and security measures that are already in place, all Connally ISD campuses require the use of clear backpacks by students. Additionally, the maximum size of non-transparent bags that students may carry on their person during the school day, such as lunch kits, pencil bags, and purses will be 6" x 9". This policy will begin in the 2024-2025 school year. 

Students that participate in extracurricular activities are permitted to carry non-transparent bags to store items pertaining to those particular activities (i.e. band, athletics, theatre arts, etc.). Upon entry into the school, all extracurricular activity bags must be stored in lockers or other designated areas as specified by the coach/director of the program or the campus administrator. All bags are subject to be searched at any point, including (but not limited to) during morning entry through campus metal detectors. 

Clear backpacks will be mandatory for all commonly-used schools during the 2021-2025 school years

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Online retailers such as Amazon currently carry clear backpacks. Additionally, most major athletic brands (Nike, Adidas, etc.) sell clear backpacks. Connally ISD has notified local retailers about our transition to clear backpacks, so there should be additional stock of the products at our local supermarkets. 
    If your student(s) struggle to acquire the required backpack (or any other type of school supply), please contact your campus administrator for a list of resources that are available.

  • Beginning in the 2024-2025 school year, all students enrolled in Pre-K through the 12th grade must adhere to the clear backpack policy.

  • There are no size specifications for the clear backpack.

  • No. Fully mesh backpacks are not allowed. Students are permitted to only use clear backpacks.

    A black backpack featuring mesh panels for ventilation and style

    Clear backpacks that have mesh side pockets (seen below) are allowed.

    Clear backpack with black straps and a zipper, showcasing a simple and functional design for everyday use

    Clear backpacks that have a mesh organizer inside the front pocket are also allowed (see below). 

    Clear backpack featuring two compartments and a zipper for secure storage and easy access to belongings

  • No. Colored and/or glazed transparent backpacks are not allowed. Only fully clear backpacks are permitted.

    Two unmarked backpacks in different colors, one blue and one red, displayed side by side on a neutral background

  • No. Stripes in any location are not allowed on the backpack (see example).

    A backpack featuring a prominent no entry sign, indicating restricted access or prohibited use

  • Yes. Colored straps or reinforcements on the corner of the backpack are allowed.

    Three clear backpacks featuring pink, purple, and blue straps displayed together.

    A clear backpack featuring adjustable straps and a top handle for easy carrying

  • Yes. Small logos and designs (not to exceed 6" x 6") are allowed (see example), in addition to small monograms, but large logos, monograms, or other visual design obstructions are not.

    Three clear backpacks displayed, each featuring unique designs and patterns

  • Yes, however, these bags must be stored as soon as the student arrives at school. They must be placed in lockers or secured in fine arts classrooms or athletic locker rooms as designated by school instructors.

  • Yes. Non-transparent lunch kits no larger than approximately 6” x 9” x 5” (see examples) are permitted to be carried. 

    Comparison of suitcase and bag dimensions, showcasing size differences for travel convenience

  • Yes. Students must limit non-transparent 6” x 9” bags (lunch kits, purses, pouches) to three bags (see examples), regardless of whether they are carried inside or outside the backpack. Yondr pouches do not count towards this limit.

    Three brown bags are shown with their dimensions: a 6"x9" handbag, a 9"x6" tote, and a 6"x9"x5" briefcase, conveying a stylish tone.

  • Yes. Zip up binders (see below) are allowed and do not count towards the allotment of 6"x9" bags. Zip up binders are eligible to be subjected to the same search/safety inspections as other bags/backpacks.

    Turquoise binder with a black zipper and handle, featuring geometric gray and white triangular accents. The "Case it" logo is visible on the lower right.

  • Yes. Clear totes, purses, and bags are allowed (see examples). 

    Three clear bags are displayed: a red-trimmed tote, a crossbody with chain strap, and three resealable bags stacked vertically, all with red accents.

  • No. Fabric, wallpaper or any other material that conceals the contents of the backpack is not permitted.

  • No. According to current United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) research, chemicals released by plastic backpacks are not stored in the human body, so routine, low level exposures like touching plastic products or breathing indoor air are unlikely to cause toxicity or disease. Additional information can be found on the CDC/ATSDR website.

  • 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 within the backpack. Any non-transparent pouch, purse, or lunch kit should be no larger than approximately 6” x 9” x 5”.

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