Harford County Public Schools implemented new bag requirements for all spectators attending athletic events at middle and high schools to “enhance safety and security” in the wake of a fatal shooting at Joppatowne High School this month.
The school system had said Thursday that all bags would be prohibited at its athletic events starting Friday, but as of Tuesday, bags that meet specific requirements are allowed in.
Clear tote bags made of plastic, vinyl or PVC are permitted and may not have more than one logo that is larger than 4.5 inches tall by 3.4 inches wide. The bags cannot exceed 12 inches tall by 12 inches wide by 6 inches deep.
Small bags that aren’t clear are also allowed but may not be larger than 4.5 inches by 8.5 inches. Clear, plastic, resealable bags no larger than the gallon size are permitted, as well as medically necessary and diaper bags, though those are subject to search and an infant must be present.
Spectators can bring seat cushions and blankets, which are also subject to search, as long as blankets are carried over the arm or shoulder, not in a bag.
Bags that fail to meet the requirements will not be permitted, and those who don’t comply with the new policy will be denied entry to the event.
Parents have requested increased security measures at the high school, such as clear backpacks and metal detectors. One parent created a petition calling for these measures that garnered over 4,000 signatures.
After the Sept. 6 shooting, Joppatowne High students were prohibited from bringing bookbags or large purses to school until new lockers arrived. Students must keep larger bags stored in lockers, and if they don’t follow the guidelines, they could be subject to searches and disciplinary action.
The violence stemmed from a dispute in a first-floor school bathroom. Fifteen-year-old Warren Curtis Grant was shot and later died at a hospital. Grant was remembered by friends at a vigil as being a helping hand with an infectious smile. Another teenager has been charged.
On Monday night, Harford County Board of Education Vice President Melissa Hahn called on Superintendent Sean Bulson to resign over school safety.
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