Manatee school district implements clear bag policy for athletic events

District graphic explaining permitted bags
District graphic explaining permitted bags

Fans going to sporting events at Manatee County schools will need to pack a clear bag this year, according to the district.

Manatee Schools had previously implemented a clear bag policy ahead of the 2019 school year. The resumption of the policy for 2022 is to ensure the safety of all students and spectators, according to a district press release sent Friday. The district did not cite a specific incident or motivation for the change.

The Sarasota County School District continues to have a clear bag policy in place.

A person's bag must be no larger than 12” x 6” x 12” and made of clear material that can be easily searched, the district said. Small non-clear clutch bags are permitted but are subject to search when entering a game.

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Fans can still bring cameras, binoculars, seat cushions and blankets for colder games, per the district. The items must be carried by hand or in the clear bag, and bags designed to carry such items are not allowed.

Anyone going to a game should arrive early to compensate for the additional time needed to enter the games because of bag screenings, the district said.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Manatee County School District to require clear bags at sports events