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MHS Locker and Backpack Policy

New Safety Policy: Lockers and Classroom Bags

After careful consideration of student safety research and consultation with our safety committee, we are implementing the following policy changes:

Effective immediately upon return to school:

  • All students will be assigned lockers for storing their belongings, including backpacks, textbooks, and personal items. These will be assigned on the first day of school.
  • Traditional backpacks will not be permitted in classrooms during instructional time. Students may bring traditional backpacks to school but they must be stored in their locker.  Coats must also be stored in lockers.
  • Students may carry small crossbody bags only in classrooms for essential items such as pencils, pens, and small personal items.

Why This Change?

This policy change is being implemented based on extensive research about classroom safety and injury prevention. Studies and safety experts have identified several key concerns with traditional backpacks in learning environments including:

Trip and Fall Hazards: Research consistently shows that backpacks placed on classroom floors create significant safety risks. Student backpacks on the floor of a classroom could cause a trip hazard, and safety experts note that students are often injured when they trip over large packs. Maintaining clear walkways and aisles between desks is essential for preventing accidents.

Security and Safety Concerns: Backpacks can be used to hide weapons, drugs, or other prohibited items, which raises security concerns for our school community. Additionally, storing personal items in a locker reduces the chance of theft. During lockdowns and safety drills, backpacks can complicate the process of quickly securing a room or searching for threats.

How This Will Work

  • Locker Assignment: All students will receive locker assignments and combinations during the first week of school
  • Locker Times: Students will have designated times to visit their lockers between classes, before and after lunch, and at the beginning and end of the school day
  • Crossbody Bags: Students may bring small crossbody or hand bags (maximum size: 8.5" x 11" x 3"-- No bigger than a sheet of paper) to carry essential classroom supplies
  • Textbooks: Digital textbooks will be prioritized, and classroom sets will be available to reduce the need for students to transport heavy materials
  • Coats and winter items: Students will store their coats in their lockers
  • Extra bags for our Student Athletes: Students that require an extra bag for athletic practice or games will be provided a secure storage location upon entry to the building. 

What You Can Do to Help

  • Practice locker use: If possible, practice combination locks at home with your child
  • Organize supplies: Help your child organize their materials so they can efficiently use their locker space
  • Choose appropriate bags: Select a small crossbody bag that meets size requirements for classroom use
  • Review the policy: Please discuss this policy with your child so they understand the safety reasons behind these changes and are prepared for their implementation on the first day of school

Questions and Support

We understand that any policy change requires an adjustment period. Our teachers and staff are prepared to help students adapt to this new system during the first weeks of school. If you have questions or concerns about this policy, please don't hesitate to contact your child’s administrator:

  • Assistant Principal TBA, students last name A-G: 254-7312
  • Clara Bepe, students last name H-Q: 254-7314
  • Laura Sigler, students last name R-Z: 254-7307

We appreciate your support in creating a safer learning environment for all our students. These changes reflect our ongoing commitment to prioritizing student safety while maintaining an excellent educational experience.

Important Dates: 

  • Freshman Orientation/locker practice: August 6, 2025 - 3:30-5:30
    • Doors open at 3:30 for schedule pick up
    • Event starts promptly at 4:00 so try to arrive no later than 3:45
    • Students only from 3:30-5:00; there will be a parent meeting from 5:00-5:30 in the auditorium. Parents and students will have the opportunity to walk the building with their student’s schedule from 5:30-6:00. 
  • First day of school: August 13, 2025
    • Locker assignments distributed
  • Policy Questions: Please contact your child’s administrator
  • Academic Questions: Please contact your child's counselor