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- Cross Country Runners to Compete at State Championship - November 2023
- 69th annual National Merit Awards
- Socastee Student to Have Art Displayed at US Capitol
- Loris Middle to Teach Agriculture through Hands-On Gardening
- Lakewood Kindergartners Win National Reading Championship
- 2024 State Wrestling Championship
- Four Current and Retired HCS Employees Receive Awards from the SCAAA
- North Myrtle Beach High Varsity Theatre team wins SCTA High School Festival
- HCS Board of Education Appoints Interim Chief Officers, Executive Director, and Executive Assistant
- Horry County Schools
- Clear Backpacks
Clear Backpacks for the 2024-2025 School Year
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As part of our ongoing efforts to prioritize the safety and security of our schools, Horry County Schools (HCS) is implementing additional protocols and procedures for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year. We know it takes a team effort of our staff, students, and parents working together to provide the safest environment possible. One of the new safety protocols is the requirement that all students who choose to carry a backpack must use a clear backpack, starting this upcoming school year.
FAQ
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What are the size specifications for the clear backpacks?
There are no size specifications for the clear backpack; however, please consider the dimensions for the school-issued devices. District-issued laptops are 12” x 8” x 1.”
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Are mesh backpacks allowed?
No. Mesh backpacks are not allowed. Students are only permitted to use clear backpacks. (See example.)
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Can the backpack have mesh pockets?
Yes. Mesh side pockets are allowed on the backpack. (See example.)
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Can the front pocket of the backpack have a mesh organizer?
Yes. A mesh organizer inside the front pocket is allowed. (See example.)
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Will backpacks with padded backs be accepted?
No. Backpacks must have clear visibility through all dimensions excluding the backpack bottom. (See example.)
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Are transparent colored backpacks allowed?
No. Colored, transparent backpacks are not allowed. Only fully clear backpacks are permitted. (See example.)
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Are stripes allowed on the backpack?
No. Stripes in any location are not allowed on the backpack. (See example.)
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Can the backpack have colored straps?
Yes. The backpack may have colored straps. (See example.)
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Are leather reinforcements on the corners of the backpacks allowed?
Yes. Leather reinforcements in the corners are permitted. (See example.)
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Are company or trademark logos allowed on the front of the backpack?
Yes. Small company and school logos are allowed, but large logos, monograms, or other visual design obstructions are not. (See example.)
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Will athletic/spirit bags and instrument cases that are not clear be allowed on campus?
Yes, however, these bags are subject to be searched.
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Are lunch boxes permitted?
Yes, however, these lunch boxes are subject to be searched. Non-transparent lunch boxes no larger than approximately 6”x9”x5” are permitted to be carried. (See example.)
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What about students that must carry medical items/equipment to school?
An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection.
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Are clear totes, clear purses, and transparent plastic bags allowed?
Yes, clear totes, purses, and bags are allowed. (See examples.)
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What about privacy?
We understand the concern regarding the privacy of certain items contained within backpacks. Students will be permitted to carry such items in a small makeup pouch or purse. Any non-transparent pouch, purse, or lunch kit should be no larger than approximately 6” x 9” x 5” and will be subject to search.