WILLIAMSBURG, Va. — As students and their families prepare for 2024, Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools (WJCC Schools) administrators are implementing new policies regarding high school sporting events.
Bags of any size or type, including backpacks, totes, and camera bags, are no longer permitted at games and competitions.
Administrators said this was not borne out of any specific threat or incident, but was a “proactive” measure to maintain safety.
Warhill High School graduate Comfort Akpan told 13 News. Currently, school officials already have existing safety measures in place.
“They already [looked] Through your bag,” Akpan said. I really don’t understand why they would add this baggage policy. ”
Local parents said off-camera that they had no problem with the new no-bag policy.
Robert, who has lived there for many years, believes that transparent bags should be an option, like those used in professional games.
“I think there are some modifications that need to be made,” Robert explained. “People want to bring something to the football game. They should be able to carry it in a bag, especially a clear bag. If they can carry a sandwich or something to eat, water.”
Kara Wall, Director of Strategic Communications for WJCC Schools, released the following statement in response to requests from the community for clear bags.
Thank you, parents, for understanding our goal of keeping our community safe. Considering the move towards clear bags or bag-free policies, we believe that clear bags can provide a false sense of security.
As previously stated, exceptions will be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on medical/personal care needs.
Kathryn Novak, who lives in a remote county, said, “I have a young family and I take my kids to events, and I bring snacks, drinks, things to keep the young people entertained,” but she doesn’t bring bags with her. I think it is unrealistic to ban it.
“And the other problem with trying to lock your wallet in your car is that knowing your wallet is in your car makes it a big nuisance for some asshole or thief trying to break into your car.” Is it going to draw people into the parking lot?” ”
In response to this concern, Wall said: “While we do not comment on specific security patrol processes at events, we do have methods in place for indoor and outdoor security.”
Officials will consider exceptions to the no-bag policy on a case-by-case basis for reasons such as medical or personal care.
Also, as with any large event, venue, or amusement park, everyone must pass through a weapons detection gate. This is something the students have seen before at an event he sponsored at WJCC School.
“No matter where I go, even to a basketball game, I will always have this with me,” Akpan added.
Administrators said they plan to introduce new safety measures to events other than track and field in the future.