The Warrick County School Corporation in Indiana has implemented a district-wide ban on students carrying backpacks between classes. This decision follows an incident where a gun was found inside a student's bag at Castle High School, prompting an immediate review of safety protocols.
Key Takeaways
- Students in Warrick County schools are no longer permitted to carry backpacks from class to class during the school day.
- A small personal item, measuring 4.5 by 6.5 inches, is now the only bag allowed in hallways.
- The policy change was a direct response to a gun being discovered in a student's backpack at Castle High School.
- District officials are actively exploring the implementation of a weapons detection system and will visit another school to observe its system.
Immediate Safety Measures Enacted
In a safety update sent to parents and guardians, the Warrick County School Corporation (WCSC) outlined several immediate changes to its daily procedures. The most significant change is the prohibition of backpacks in school hallways during instructional hours. Students must now store their backpacks for the duration of the school day.
To accommodate personal necessities, the district will permit students to carry a small personal item. The approved dimensions are 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches, a size standard often used at stadiums and other large public venues to enhance security screening. This policy aims to limit the potential for concealed items while still allowing students to carry essentials.
Exceptions and Device Policies
The district acknowledged that some students require special accommodations. According to the announcement, students with specific medical equipment that must be carried with them will need to coordinate with school officials. These cases will be handled individually to develop a plan that meets the student's health needs while adhering to the new safety framework.
For high school students, the policy on personal electronic devices has also been clarified. While students may still possess their phones, the devices must be turned off and kept out of sight during school hours. This rule is intended to minimize distractions and maintain a focused learning environment.
Background of the Incident
The new safety protocols were implemented after a firearm was found in a student's backpack at Castle High School on September 25, 2025. School officials were alerted to the potential threat by other students, who were later praised by the district for their quick and responsible actions. The incident prompted an immediate and thorough review of existing safety measures across the entire school system.
Exploring Long-Term Security Solutions
Beyond the immediate ban on backpacks, the WCSC is considering more advanced technological solutions to enhance campus security. The district announced it will "revisit the use of a weapons detection system," signaling a potential investment in new security infrastructure.
To properly evaluate this option, district officials have scheduled a visit to another school system on Tuesday. The purpose of the visit is to observe a weapons detection system in operation and understand its effectiveness and impact on the daily school routine. This fact-finding mission will inform future decisions regarding security upgrades in Warrick County.
Board of Trustees to Review Safety Plan
The Warrick County Board of School Trustees is set to meet with district administrators to conduct a comprehensive review of the current safety plan. The agenda will include discussions on the recent incident, the effectiveness of the new backpack policy, and the feasibility of installing weapons detection technology.
Community and Parental Involvement Encouraged
In its communication, the school corporation emphasized the critical role that students played in preventing a potential tragedy. Officials expressed gratitude that students followed the established safety protocol of reporting concerns to a trusted adult. The district stated it will "continue to use and rely on our current safety protocols" that empower students to speak up.
The administration also issued a direct appeal to parents and guardians, asking them to reinforce these safety messages at home. The notice included several key talking points for families:
- Discuss Safety: Continue conversations about the importance of school safety and awareness.
- Reporting Concerns: Remind children how to report any potential threat or concern to school staff or another trusted adult immediately.
- Prohibited Items: Reinforce the rule against bringing anything dangerous to school.
- Secure Storage at Home: Ensure that any weapons or potentially dangerous items at home are kept securely locked and inaccessible to children.
The district's message highlights a collaborative approach to school safety, relying on a partnership between school staff, students, and families to maintain a secure learning environment for everyone.
