Clear-Bag Policy Adopted For Manatee County Schools Sporting Events

MANATEE COUNTY, FL — With the 2022-23 school year starting, Manatee County Schools is introducing enhanced safety and security measures at sporting events.

These new measures include a weapons detections system and wanding, as well as a clear-bag policy, according to a news release from the district.

Weapons of any kind aren’t permitted at school campuses based on school board policy and state law.

Under the clear-bag policy, those attending athletic events are allowed one large clear bag, as well as a small, clutch-type handbag, the district said.

The large clear bags must be no larger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches and made of clear material that may be easily stretched. A Ziploc bag meets these requirements, the district suggested.

The small clutch-type handbag, used for personal items and subject to search by security officials or law enforcement, should be no larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches.