The Green Bay Area Public School District Board of Education on Nov. 11 tabled a proposed policy that would require secondary students to store backpacks outside classrooms after an extended debate and direct testimony from student council representatives.

Board member Alex moved to adopt a policy “that requires student backpacks to be stored outside of the classroom as presented.” The motion drew lengthy public comment from Intercity Student Council members from Preble and other high schools, including Chanel Leopold and Hannah Song, who urged the board to reconsider the proposal’s impact on students’ access to materials, tight passing times and existing locker conditions. Chanel Leopold told the board, “Overall, 50% of students voted no,” citing concerns about convenience, theft and classroom access to hygiene items. Hannah Song said heavy AP and dual-credit course loads make frequent locker trips impractical: “This pile of papers is just from a single unit,” she said, describing large textbooks and binders needed during class.

Supporters on the board said removing backpacks from classrooms can reduce distractions and improve safety. Alex argued the change would “decrease distractions, to decrease bullying” and said middle schools in the district that do not allow backpacks have seen benefits. Opponents and several board members urged caution, noting Preble High School’s larger student population, congested hallways and damaged or unavailable lockers. Jeanette, the board’s legislative reporter, and others highlighted logistical issues including six-minute passing times and multi-site students who may not have lockers at every building.

After discussion the board moved to table the item for later consideration. The motion to table was made and seconded; online voting concluded and the chair announced, “Motion carries.” The chair said the item will be placed on a future agenda to allow additional preparation, principal input and language revisions before any implementation.

What’s next: Board members suggested any change would be best timed for the spring ahead of a new school year and would require coordination with principals and staff. The board did not adopt the backpack policy at this meeting.