For Immediate Release   May 16, 2023

South Bend Community Schools to require clear backpacks for all students 

As an added security and safety measure, the South Bend Community School Corporation announced at Monday evening’s Board meeting that starting in the new 2023-24 school year, the district will permit only clear backpacks on all campuses. The new school year starts on August 16, 2023.

“We join many other districts across the country in introducing this simple measure that allows for safer buildings and work environments,” said Eric Crittendon, the district’s security and emergency preparedness director. “Transparent bags will not solve every school’s safety issues, but it certainly serves as a deterrent for harmful and prohibited items.”

The South Bend Community Schools will provide one clear backpack free of charge for students ahead of the coming academic year. Free bags will also be made available to all who attend the district’s annual “Back-to-School-Bash” to be held at Brown Community Learning Center on August 12 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., and additional opportunities for distribution will be communicated as the school year approaches.

Mesh or colored backpacks are not acceptable, even if they are transparent. Students are allowed to carry within their backpacks a non-clear pouch no larger than 5.5” x 8.5” to hold personal items.

A list of frequently asked questions will be available at sb.school.