We believe that backpacks are essential tools for school since many students carry multiple textbooks, binders, folders, pens, pencils and other school supplies. Carrying books and other materials without a backpack is not just inconvenient, but could contribute to tripping accidents in the hall when students are crowded and in close quarters as they rush from class to class. Backpacks are also safe storage for cell phones, calculators and IPods-- lockers are not entirely safe storage.

We request that in lieu of backpacks under desks or beside chairs in classrooms, students be permitted to store backpacks in areas that would meet with the approval of fire inspectors. Our suggestion is that backpacks be stored a) under desks, if appropriately sized or b) in a designated corner of the room away from any path to fire exit routes. As books stacked in between desks would be equally, if not more so, as hazardous during an emergency, as a backpack. Placing backpacks under desks and/or in a designated corner should obviate any tripping hazard.

With regard to water bottles, since there was no reason given for the ban, if the problem is that some students are suspected of putting illicit substances into their water bottles, then a policy that bans all water bottles seems to punish many students for the alleged problems of a few. Perhaps instead of a blanket ban, W&L could request a parental consent slip, affirming that a student has the permission of a parent or guardian to