CPS implements clear bag policy for fall athletic events

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

All spectators at Columbia Public Schools fall athletic events can expect clear bag requirements except a small clutch from now on, the district said Friday.

In a post on X on Friday, Battle Athletics and Activities shared a photo outlining the updated security expectations ahead of Friday's game vs. Capital City. In a statement sent to ABC 17 News via email, CPS spokeswoman Michelle Baumstark said the policy applies to all schools and said the district has used many of these policies in the past.

For those attending Battle football tomorrow vs. Capital City, please read! pic.twitter.com/C4yH9oaB3H

— Battle Athletics & Activities (@BattleAthletics) September 6, 2024

However, clear bags will now be the new normal at fall events.

"We are reminding our families about our spectator procedures, many of which are not new, and that we will be using a clear bag policy.  Information has gone out from all the high schools and middle schools, not just Battle," the statement reads. "It’s not our first time having a clear bag policy, we’ve used it a few times in the past.  It will now be a permanent practice.  We are providing information to families that may be attending our fall athletic events."

According to the post, only clear bags will be allowed in with the exception of small clutches that are no larger than 4.5x6.5 inches that can fit in a hand. They will be hand-searched.

All bags will be searched with no exceptions, the post states.

Once an individual leaves the event they will not be allowed back in, according to the post.

Tana Benner is the mother to a boy on the marching band at Hickman High School. Benner said she doesn't believe she, nor her son have been concerned about their safety so far this year. However, she said she supports whatever the district can do to help children feel safe.

Benner said she thinks this is the direction a lot of events have been moving toward.

"I think it just it makes sense with you know, the clear bag policy they have for college events and now I think a lot of concert venues and places also have similar policies so it seems to just be more of a general trend," Benner said.

Cory Bonner is a freshman at Hickman High School who said he supports the district's decision and said he thinks it'll help put people's minds at ease.

"As someone who works here, your job is to keep the kids safe and this is a high school that's got a whole lot of kids in it, so having clear bags will protect people from weapons and stuff," Bonner said.