Clear Backpack Requirements

  • Riptide logo with Let's make it clear and two clear back pack images
  • Selection of clear backpack examples with various colored straps

Clear Backpack Requirements at CCSMS

CCSMS scholars must carry clear backpacks during the school day starting with the 2025-2026 school year.

CCSMS requires clear, see-through backpacks or tote bags to allow school staff to easily see bag contents and reduce the risk of prohibited items on campus. Requests from our CCSMS families and the board prompted this change.

Clear backpacks provide another tool to ensure our highest priority, which is the safety and security of all members of the CCSMS community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you select the best choice.

 

  • Are all middle and high school scholars required to use clear backpacks?
    • Yes. All scholars regardless of grade level are required to use clear backpacks.

 

  • What are the size specifications for the clear backpack?
    • There is no specific size but be mindful of your school issued devices and textbooks.

 

  • Are mesh backpacks allowed?
    • No.  Mesh backpacks are not allowed.

 Mesh backpack with not allowed image across it 

  • Can the backpack have mesh pockets?
    • Yes. Mesh side pockets are allowed.

 Clear backpack with mesh side pockets 

  • Can the front pocket of the backpack have a mesh organizer?
    • Yes. A mesh organizer inside the front pocket is allowed.

 Clear backpack with mesh details 

  • Will backpacks with padded backs be accepted?
    • No. The backpack must have clear visibility through all dimensions, excluding the bottom.
  • Are transparent colored backpacks allowed?
    • No. Colored transparent backpacks are not allowed; only fully clear backpacks are allowed.

 Color tinted backpack with not allowed image across it 

  • Are stripes allowed on the backpack?
    • No. Stripes are not allowed in any location.

 Examples of stripes not allowed on clear backpacks 

  • Can the backpack have colored straps?
    • Yes. Colored straps are allowed.

 

  • Are leather reinforcements on the corners of the backpacks allowed?
    • Yes. Leather reinforcements on the corners are allowed.

 Leather reinforced corners of clear backpack 

  • Are company or trademark logos allowed on the front of the backpack?
    • Yes. As long as they are small and do not obstruct the view into the backpack.

 small logos on clear packback 

  • Will instrument cases, which are not clear, be allowed on campus?
    • Yes. They must be secured in the band room and they are subject to search.

 

  • Will athletic/spirit bags, which are not clear, be allowed on campus?
    • Yes. But they must be secured in the athletic storage room and are not allowed to be carried during the school day. No athletic/spirit bags will be allowed in the building.  

 

  • Do lunch boxes need to be clear?
    • No. But they should be approximately 6”x9”x5”.

 sizes for lunch boxes 

  • Where do we keep our Yondr pouches?
    • Inside your clear backpack.

 

  •  Can I carry a pocketbook as well?
    • Yes. But they should be approximately 6”x9” and are subject to searches.

 examples of 9 inch by 6 inch pocketbooks 

  • Are clear totes, clear purses, and transparent plastic bags allowed?
    • Yes. Clear totes, clear purses, and bags are allowed.

 Clear tote and purse with red trim 

  • Are scholars allowed to have a chromebook sleeve in their backpack, or are they required to carry it separately?
    • Yes. A chromebook inserted into a neoprene chromebook sleeve will be allowed in the backpack.

 

  • Can I line the inside of the backpack?
    • No. Fabric, wallpaper or any other material that conceals the contents of the backpack is not allowed.

 

  • What about scholars that must carry medical items/equipment to school?
    • An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection.  

 

  • Where can I buy a clear backpack?
    • Walmart, Amazon and other online and local stores carry clear backpacks.

 

  • Will this policy apply to afterschool activities and sporting events?
    • Yes. The clear backpack/bag policy will be strictly enforced at all afterschool activities and sporting events.  

 

  • Is there a health concern related to carrying clear backpacks (exposure to plastic)?
    • 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.

 

  • Is this an invasion of privacy?
    • No. We understand the concern regarding the privacy of certain items contained within backpacks.  Scholars will be permitted to carry such items in a small makeup pouch or purse within the backpack.  Any non-transparent pouch, purse, or lunch box should be no larger than 6"x9”x5”.

 

  • Who should I contact if I have any additional questions or concerns?