DONALDSONVILLE — Clear bag policies are becoming more frequent at stadiums and arenas, including the Raising Cane’s River Center and LSU Athletics facilities, among many others. Ascension Parish Public Schools are the latest in multiple school districts implementing a clear bag safety policy for sporting and other school events.
In October 2023, a double shooting during a Donaldsonville High School football game killed one person. The shooting happened off school property, but close to the stadium while the game was taking place. This school year has seen Ascension implementing guidelines for athletic events and assemblies that are now being enforced as this season’s football games begin.
The Ascension clear bag policy guidelines and allowances:
- Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags that do not exceed 12″ wide x 6″ deep x 12” high
- One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar)
- Small clutch bags, approximately the size of an adult hand but not larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″ with or without a handle or strap
- An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection (such as oxygen travel bag)
- Diaper bags are allowed as long as they are accompanied by an infant
More details and a list of prohibited items can also be found on the district’s website.
Other districts
Some of these changes in the local school systems come after a fatal double shooting in Port Allen in September 2023.
The incident occurred during half time at a high school football game on opening weekend. A 15-year-old died and another person was hit.
West Baton Rouge Schools now has a clear bag policy for designated school events, and screens all visitors before they are allowed to enter the event. Purses, backpacks, and fanny bags are not allowed. Exceptions are made for medical bags, but they must be searched.
East Baton Rouge Schools instituted multiple safety protocols, including a clear bag policy, shortly after the Port Allen shooting. Other safety measures include scanning attendees with a metal detector, not allowing large purses or backpacks, and disallowing reentry into a game after someone has exited.
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