Why did the Surry County Schools adopt this policy?

The safety of our students, staff, and community is a top priority.  Surry County Schools regularly reviews safety and security policies looking for ways to improve them.  This proactive step will enhance security measures.

When does the clear bag policy go into effect?

To provide a safe and secure environment for our parents, community members, students, and staff, beginning January 1, 2024, Surry County Schools is instituting a clear bag policy for all athletic events.  

Do athletes, coaches, and officials need clear bags?

Athletes, coaches, and officials participating in sporting events are exempt from these procedures.

Do I have to put everything I'm carrying into the permissible bags?

No. Fans are limited only to the type of bags carried into the arena, not items that they may normally bring to a game that fit in pockets or clutch bags (e.g., keys, makeup, feminine products, comb, phone, wallet, credit cards).  Fans may also use the clear bag and clutch to carry these items and other permissible items. Every member of the family may carry in a permissible bag.

What about diaper bags?

Diapers and non-medically necessary items for babies and young children must be carried in a clear bag. Each member of a family, including children, would be allowed to carry an approved clear bag and a clutch purse into the stadium / gym.

How many bags may each person bring into the arena?

One large clear bag -- either a gallon freezer bag or the 12" x 6" x 12" clear bag - plus a small clutch that does not exceed 4.5" x 6.5". The small clutch allows privacy for small personal items and also is easily searched.

May fans carry cameras, binoculars, smart phones or tablets separately from what they put in a clear bag?

Yes. Phones, tablets, binoculars or cameras (as long as they are not in a bag or a case) may be carried into the stadium / gym.

What about bringing blankets in cold weather and stadium seats?

Fans will be able to bring blankets by tossing them over a shoulder or arm.  Stadium seats are permitted.

If I have certain items that I need to bring into the stadium for medical reasons and they won't fit in the clear bag, what do I do?

Medically necessary items will be screened and permitted into the stadium.

Are all purses prohibited?

No. Small clutch purses, with or without a handle or strap, that do not exceed 4.5" x 6.5" are permitted along with either the 12" x 6" x 12" clear tote bag or the one-gallon freezer bag. Fans are encouraged not to bring any bags, but the policy has been created to balance fan needs with improved public safety and convenience.