Center ISD Clear Bag Policy for Graduation

May16, 2024 - Center Independent School District will implement a Clear Bag Policy at Graduation to enhance public safety. This is being made out of an abundance of caution, and is designed to ensure a safe and secure environment for all attendees, including students, staff, families, and community members. The clear bag guidelines aim to improve visibility and reduce security screening times, allowing for a more efficient and enjoyable game-day experience.

Clear Bag Guidelines:

• All attendees, including students and adults, may bring one of the following:
• A clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag that does not exceed 12” x 6” x 12”
• A one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar)
• A small clutch bag, approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap (not to exceed 4.5” x 6.5”)

Prohibited Bags Include:

• Backpacks, purses, or bags larger than the allowed size
• Diaper bags (diapers and items for babies must be carried in an approved clear bag)
• Camera bags or binocular cases
• Tinted plastic bags or mesh bags
• Any non-clear bag larger than the clutch size mentioned above

Exceptions:

Medical items will be permitted, but individuals will need to have their bag inspected and approved at the designated gate entry.

We are committed to ensuring that our attendees, students, and staff have a safe environment to enjoy the excitement of Center ISD Graduation. We believe this policy will help us maintain a secure atmosphere at all events while making the entry process smoother for everyone.

All attendees are encouraged to arrive early to allow time for security screening.

Clear Bag Policy

Questions & Answers:

Out of an abundance of caution, and to ensure guest safety into the stadium, Center ISD has implemented a clear bag policy limiting the size and type allowed at all
events. Attendees are encouraged not to bring any types of bags inside Center Roughrider Stadium; however, the following outlines bags that are permitted:

• Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12"
• One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc bag or similar)
• Small clutch bags, with or without a handle or strap, that do not exceed 4.5" x 6.5"(approximately the size of a hand).
• An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at a gatedesignated for this purpose.

Prohibited bags include, but not limited to:

• Purses larger than a clutch bag
• Diaper bags*
• Cases (camera, binocular, etc.)
• Backpacks / Cinch Bags (includes clear backpacks / cinch bags)
• Fanny packs
• Reusable grocery totes
• Mesh or straw bags
• Duffle bags
• Large totes
*Items normally carried in a diaper bag must be put into a clear plastic bag for venue entry.

Why has this bag policy been adopted?
This is about both safety and improving the overall attendees experience at Center Roughrider Stadium. This proactive measure will enhance safety inside and outside the stadium, and speed
the security screening process for all attendees.

How does the policy improve public safety?
The clear bag is easily and quickly searched and greatly reduces faulty bag searches. It also supports the Department of Homeland Security’s "If You See Something, Say Something"
campaign.

How is the policy more convenient for Attendees?
The clear bags will enable security to move attendees faster through gates. A standard size bag eliminates the need for bag templates to check bag sizes. Clear bags allow staff to be more efficient and effective in keeping you safe by preventing dangerous items from entering the stadium.

What happens if a attendee shows up at the gate with a bag that is not permitted?
Attendee will not be allowed to enter a venue with a non-conforming bag. Attendee will be asked to return items to their vehicle.

How many bags may each person bring into the stadium?
One large clear bag - either a one-gallon Ziploc style bag or the 12" x 6" x 12" clear bag - plus a small clutch that does not exceed 4.5" x 6.5". The small clutch allows privacy for small personal items and also is easily searched.

Are all purses prohibited?
No. Small clutch purses, with or without a handle or strap, no larger than 4.5" x 6.5" are permitted. Purses larger than this are not permitted.

Can attendees bring stadium seats or seat cushions?
Yes. Attendees are permitted to bring in their own stadium seats or seat cushions provided the seats do not have any pockets or zippers.

Can smartphones, tablets, binoculars or cameras be carried SEPARATELY from the clear bag?
Yes. These items may be carried into the venue as long as they are not in a bag or case. For example, while binoculars and cameras are allowed, the binocular case or camera case is not
allowed. This is not a restriction on items, only a restriction on the type of container used to carry the items. The point is to make it easy for security personnel to screen your items.

What about diaper bags?
Diapers and non-medically necessary items for babies and young children must be carried in a clear bag. Each member of a family, including children, would be allowed to carry an approved clear bag and a clutch purse into the stadium. If I have special medical equipment I need to have with me at all times, where do I put that? An exception will be made for medical necessary items after proper inspection at designated areas.

Do I have to put everything I’m carrying into a permissible bag?
No. Attendees are limited only to the type of bags carried into the stadium, not items that they may normally bring to a game that fit in pockets or clutch bags (e.g., keys, makeup, feminine
products, comb, phone, wallet, credit cards). Attendees may carry a blanket over their arms, and binoculars and/or camera around their necks or in their hands without the case. Attendees may also use the clear bag and clutch to carry these items and other permissible items. Every member of the family may carry in a permissible bag