ROANOKE, Va. – Roanoke City Public Schools will be introducing some new rules for the upcoming sports season in an effort to keep spectators safe.
Starting Friday, Sept. 8, all middle and high schools in the Roanoke City school division will implement a clear bag/security screening policy, in addition to a no outside drinks procedure.
Director of Athletics, Patty Sheedy, said people are already used to having similar policies going to other events.
“If you go to the fair you need to have it. If you go to Dr Pepper Park you need to have a clear bag. If you go to a Virginia Tech game you need a bag. It’s not anything people aren’t used to, so we’d be just added to the city schools just to give us one more layer of safety,” Sheedy said.
These updated security guidelines will apply to everyone attending RCPS athletic events, excluding players, participants, and event officials.
The style and size of bags will not be considered as long as the products inside can be seen. Medical items are permitted, but school officials prefer for them to be in a clear bag if possible.
Guests can also purchase clear bags at an event if needed.
Here’s a look at items that will no longer be allowed:
- Backpacks
- Camera bags
- Cinch bags
- Purses
- Weapons of any kind
- Fanny Packs
- Coolers/Ice Chests
- Computer bags
- Bikes
- Skateboards
- Fireworks
- Laser pointers
- Drones
- Hoverboards
As mentioned previously, there will also be a ‘no outside drinks’ procedure that will prohibit guests from bringing outside drinks and containers into venues. This new rule will be enforced at the ticket gates.
“It makes it a little bit quicker for us to go through any type of security screening and they’re prepared when they go to other schools that have the same policy,” Sheedy said.