The Newton Municipal School District has sent a message to parents at Newton Elementary School that clear backpacks are now “recommended” after a gun was brought on campus in a backpack and was discharged, injuring a 6-year-old student.
School Board of Trustees attorney Brian Mayo said in an emailed statement that the gun was brought to school in a mesh backpack, which complied with the district policy.
“At the time of the incident, the district had in place a policy which required students to have either a clear or mesh backpack,” Mayo said in an emailed response. “The District and its schools adhered to this policy. The backpack that was a part of the incident was a mesh backpack and thus complied with school policy. The District has recommended to parents that only clear backpacks be utilized and offered to furnish students a clear backpack.”
SEE NMSD'S REPORT TO MDE
If the district wants to mandate only clear backpacks, the Newton Municipal School Board of Trustees would have to amend its current policy. Discussion of the policy is on the agenda for Thursday's meeting, Mayo said.
According to the district’s policy website, it was adopted Sept. 1, 2006 and last reviewed on May 17, 2021, after which another incident with a gun being brought on campus occurred in April 2021.
According to NMSD board policy JCDBB - School Bookbags, “Effective 11/01/2012, all school bags (including bookbags, backpacks, satchels, etc.) must be constructed of a clear plastic or mesh material so that their contents are clearly visible. Only school bags meeting this standard will be allowed in school buildings and on school grounds.
“Admission to school shall not be denied to a student because of noncompliance with this policy; however, the student will be counseled so that the cause/s of noncompliance can be determined and resolved.
“This policy is part of the district’s overall effort to prevent school violence and to provide safe schools for our students, staff, and community.”
The Newton County Appeal obtained a copy of the following message was sent to all parents on Monday, Oct. 4:
“NES will resume classes tomorrow, October 5, 2021. Starting tomorrow, we are recommending students bring clear backpacks. If your child does not have a clear backpack, we will provide one for them. Over the next few days, we will be offering counseling to our students. On Wednesday, our local police departments will speak to our students about drills and firearm safety.”
According to the school’s Facebook page, several law enforcement officers showed up to the school and talked with students about gun safety. Those included Newton Police Chief Randy Patrick, Assistant Police Chief Johnny Martin, Newton County Sheriff Joedy Pennington and Union Police Officer Steve Robinson.
