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Clear Backpacks

Clear Bag Policy

Clear Backpacks Required

As part of Mesquite ISD’s ongoing efforts to enhance safety for students and staff members, a clear bag policy is in effect. Only clear backpacks, purses and totes will be allowed for students on campus. All items inside a student backpack, purse or tote must be visible; however, students may carry a small nonclear bag to hold personal items, such as a cell phone, money, and hygiene products.

Frequently Asked Questions About Clear Backpacks

  • MISD is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all students and staff. The clear bag/backpack requirement is one tool in MISD’s multifaceted approach to school safety. While clear bags may not prevent all prohibited items from entering our buildings, in general, clear bags are a deterrent or obstacle to those who intend to violate campus rules. As always, we encourage those who see something to say something for the safety of everyone. Students are encouraged to put a luggage tag or other identification on their clear bags/backpacks to avoid mix-ups.

  • No. Students may carry clear bags/backpacks with small amounts of mesh trim, but the majority of the bag must be clear, and all contents inside the bag must be visible from the outside.

  • No. The clear/transparent material should be free of any colors, tint or darkening; however, trim, such as straps, zippers, etc., may be colored.

  • Students may carry personal items, such as a cell phone, money or hygiene products, in a nonclear bag inside their clear bags. Dimensions of nonclear bag may be no larger than 8.5” x 5.5” — the size of half a sheet of letter-size piece of paper. MISD recommends a small pencil bag, but other nonclear bags of a similar size are acceptable.

  • Families are responsible for providing a clear backpack for their student. 

  • Clear food containers or bags are required. Clear lunch bags advertised as “insulated” can be found at local retailers or online. A removable cold pack may be used inside to keep food items cool. Thermos-type containers designed to keep liquid foods warm are not required to be clear. Students may also carry nonclear refillable water bottles.

  • Nonclear bag/backpack brought to school will be held in the office. Students will be allowed to retrieve their nonclear bags at the end of the school day. MISD is not responsible for bags/backpacks reported lost, stolen or damaged. Students who repeatedly bring a nonclear bag/backpack to school may face disciplinary consequences.

  • Students involved in athletic or other extracurricular activities may bring their equipment in a nonclear bag or case; however, they must store such bags or cases in designated areas upon arriving at school.

  • Yes.

    Students may carry personal items, such as money or hygiene products, in a nonclear bag inside their clear bags. Dimensions of nonclear bag may be no larger than 8.5” x 5.5” — the size of half a sheet of letter-size piece of paper.

  • Yes, as long as all contents of the bag/backpack are easily visible from the outside.

  • Please consult with your child’s principal/teacher for guidance in unique situations.

  • No.