From the monthly PTO Presidents' Breakfast:
Considering gun violence in schools in the U.S., have you considered zero backpack policies? Our middle school leaves them in lockers all day, but a recent post from the family council indicates that at several schools, students are required to keep them all day. Secondly, there is a toll on their bodies.
Gun violence is a serious concern within schools throughout the United States, and many factors impact student and staff safety. We at ACPS are constantly evaluating and addressing these concerns to ensure we provide the most safe and productive learning environment while remaining vigilant in providing a safe environment free from violence.
ACPS provides lockers upon request. School administrators can limit backpack use during the school day or for special events to ensure that the learning environment is most effective for instruction and safety.
The use of backpacks in each school environment may impact each school differently. In our elementary schools, the students do not change classes, and their belongings are accessible to them as needed under the supervision of the teaching staff. In our middle and high schools, there is an increase in the use of technology. Locker use is by choice. By carrying their belongings, students have less time lost between classes and have limited time to congregate and be distracted by the day's events. Without lockers, we can create flexible learning spaces to meet the needs of students, increase student engagement, and attend to smaller group learning. We also take care to consider the student and not infringe on their personal privacy or personal expression.
Considering gun violence is a specific threat to our schools, ACPS can employ other means to foster a safe environment. The Office of Safety and Security is available to attend your scheduled meetings and discuss this and other safety matters that you would like to discuss. Please contact Ralph Bradley at rbradley@k12albemarle.org for more information.