With the new year beginning at Woodbridge High School, the ‘No Bag Policy’ has been created and enforced. All staff, administration, and students are no longer permitted to carry around bags any larger than a small handbag or clutch during the school day. A majority of students aren’t happy with the reinforcement, but why?
Like most rules, consequences will follow for any student not following the rule. Students have been told to leave their bags in the lockers, and if seen, you will be told to take it back to your locker. If refused, or if it happens multiple times, you will now be given consequences by administrators.
The rule being enforced is new for this school year, with bags being allowed in the building last year. The rule connects with the district policy regarding bags at sporting events, which are also not allowed. Last year, backpacks were not allowed in the classroom. Larger handheld bags and purses were carried through the school last year with no consequences.
This year, the rule has been followed well, even strictly banning bags or purses into sports events at the school. Those who attempt to bring bags will be denied entry.
Starting this year, bags no larger than a simple handbag or hand held clutch are no longer permitted to be carried around to classes. Students who carry them around, will be told by staff to take it back to your locker, putting it away.
From teachers’ perspectives, the no bag policy was necessary. Not only because they were often a distraction to the students, but because of safety precautions.
Differing Reactions on Bags
“Bags should be stored away or in lockers. There could be a plethora of things people can bring to school,” said Mr. Ballos, science teacher at WHS. “We don’t have security [like metal detectors] worthy of detecting things that shouldn’t be brought in. We have to be sure the kids come safe. Safety is paramount!”
Students on the other hand are not happy, as they believe it is unfair. Many students believe a bag is a necessity, making it easier to get around the school with everything together, rather than having to hold it, dropping things on the way to class and the heaviness on one’s arms. Some students claim to not make it to class on time because of this.
”The ban was unnecessary and let me tell you why. How am I supposed to be on the 3rd floor but all my items are in my locker in the D-wing,” Yeniheris, a student at WHS, believes. “I don’t understand why they banned it. Nothing was wrong with the bags.”
The school has now seen less bags being brought around, as students and staff continue to follow the rule. Staff has been keeping watch and has also told the students to no longer bring them into class, and there will be no leniency this year.
The enforcement of the bag ban seems to have some mixed opinions but it seems to be the best option for the safety of the school. While there are people who have issues with the rule, safety must come first!
