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Parent urges board to rescind backpack ban, citing equity and disability concerns
Summary
A parent told the board that a tentative rule to eliminate backpacks and totes is an overreach that will not prevent phone misuse and will burden students with disabilities; the superintendent said the decision was made at the building level and he will review suggested modifications.
Parent Kayla Sineke addressed the board during public comment to oppose a tentative rule that would eliminate backpacks and totes in school. "I'm here today to discuss the tentative new rule to eliminate backpacks and totes from the schools...I feel the administration and school board are demonstrating a clear misuse and overreach of power," she said, urging the board to reconsider the change and proposing alternatives such as limiting only extra-large bags and encouraging locker use.
Sineke argued the rule would not stop students from sneaking phones into classrooms and could harm students with ADHD or those who carry medical apparatus, and she asked the board to rescind the rule immediately because it is not formally in the student handbook. Superintendent Sorticio responded in the superintendent's report that the backpack decision originated at the building level and that he supported it but would review the parent's suggestions with building administrators and follow up. The board did not take immediate action; the superintendent said he would be in touch with the parent.
