Only clear bags allowed in Wake County school events

Starting Friday, new rules are going into place at Wake County schools to keep people safe at school events.

It’s the first day for the district’s new clear bag rule for spectators at sports and other large-scale gatherings for Wake high schools.

The intent of the clear bag rule is to deter people from bringing knives or other weapons to plays or sporting events or other extracurricular activities.

For students or parents coming to Friday night’s basketball game, here’s what that new rule looks like in practice:

• No traditional purses or bags. Bags must be clear.
• People and bags will be searched upon entry.
• Wristlets and diaper bags will still be allowed.
• Guests can also bring bags that are medically necessary – like containers for menstrual products or an oxygen tank.
• Exceptions may also be made for certain baby carriers, coats, blankets and seat cushions.
• People are otherwise limited to one clear bag that’s 12 inches by 15 inches by 3 inches and one clutch or wristlet bag that’s no more than 4 inches by 6 inches by 1 inch.
• No more backpacks or belt bags unless they are small and clear.
• The rule only applies to extracurricular events that would have spectators and not to the regular school day.

WRAL Education Insider, Emily Walkenhorst, says the district could make adjustments to the rule.

“Basically, what they’re doing at the school system level is they’re going to do this for 30 days, and then they’re going to try to see if there were any challenges,” she said.

This rule doesn’t only apply to sporting events. This is for any on campus after school activity like a band concert or a theater production.