With all of the recent safety concerns at school sporting events nationally and in order to provide a more safe and secure environment for our students, athletes, parents, staff and community members, Rockingham County Schools will implement a clear bag requirement for all RCS football games held at a RCS venue effective immediately.
Effective September 5, 2023 all RCS athletic venues will implement a clear bag policy.
The only exceptions to the clear bag policy are a medical bag, diaper bag or media with proper inspection.
Rockingham County Schools appreciates the understanding and cooperation of our community as we work together to ensure the safety of everyone involved in our school events. We know this added measure of clear bags will enhance the security measures at our school sporting events.
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Sean Gladieux
Director of Safety & PIO
Rockingham County Schools
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Beginning August 29, 2023, all football games at RCS venues will have a clear bag policy for spectators in an effort to promote safety and security. Beginning September 5, 2023 all RCS athletic events will have a clear bag policy. Please review our Frequently Asked Questions to help plan your visit to RCS athletic events.
Why did RCS implement this procedure?
The safety of our students, staff, and fans is a top priority. Rockingham County Schools is constantly enhancing emergency and safety protocols through ongoing collaboration and partnership with law enforcement agencies, community partners and other urban school districts.
What types of bags are allowed?
You are permitted to bring:
Clear plastic or vinyl bags that are no larger than 12” x 6” x 12”
One gallon-sized clear plastic storage bag
Medical Bags containing medically necessary items, after proper inspection
Diaper bags with infant/toddler present, after proper inspection
What types of bags are not allowed?
You are NOT permitted to bring:
Clutch Bag or purse
Purses
Briefcases
Backpacks
Duffle Bags
Drawstring Bags
Fanny Packs
Cinch/Drawstring bags
Luggage
Computer/Camera Bags, excluding credentialed members of the press
Is this procedure just for certain athletic events?
No, clear bags and the noted exceptions will be required at all RCS athletic events beginning with football games effective August 29, 2023 and all RCS athletic venues effective September 5, 2023.
Are all non-clear bags and purses prohibited?
No, medical bags, as well as diaper bags with an infant/toddler present, are allowed but are subject to inspection at the entrance.
How many bags can each person bring into the athletic venue?
One large clear bag – either a one-gallon zip style bag or a 12″ by 6″ by 12″ clear bag or the larger clear bag must be a standard 12″ by 6″ by 12″ made of clear PVC vinyl or the one-gallon zip-style bag.
Do I have to put everything I’m carrying into the permissible bags?
No. We are limiting only the type of bags carried into the venue, not items that you normally bring to a event. Therefore, you can carry in your pockets or jacket keys, makeup, feminine products, comb, phone, wallet, credit cards, etc., if you choose not to put them in a clear bag or clutch. And you can carry a blanket over your arms, and binoculars and/or camera around your neck or in your hands without the case. You can use the clear bag and clutch to carry other items. You will continue to have the flexibility to bring a wide variety of approved items into the venue. Every member of your group may carry in a permissible bag.
Can fans carry cameras and other devices separately from what they put in a clear bag?
Yes, a camera and other devices can be carried into the venue if they are not in their own bag. This is not a restriction on items that visitors have previously been able to bring into the stadium. It is only a restriction on the type of container used to carry items.
What happens if a person shows up at a venue with a bag that is not permitted?
Fans carrying bags that do not meet the criteria will not be permitted to enter and will be asked to return prohibited items to their car prior to entry.
Can fans bring stadium seats or chairbacks?
Fans are permitted to bring in their own stadium seats or chairbacks provided the seats do not have any pockets or zippers and do not exceed 12”x12”x18” inches.
What about bringing blankets in cold weather?
Fans will be able to bring blankets by tossing them over a shoulder or arm as they arrive at the gate. These items are subject to search.
Will the media be allowed to bring bags into the venue?
Yes, appropriately credentialed members of the media will be allowed to bring bags into the venue.
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