Horry County Schools, the third-largest school district in South Carolina, has unveiled a new backpack policy designed to increase student safety. This policy change, instigated by security concerns following an incident where a firearm was brought to a Myrtle Beach school, requires students to carry clear backpacks.
The updated policy insists that all backpacks must be fully transparent, without any colored stripes or designs. Colored straps and leather corner reinforcements are permissible, however, the main body of these bags must be uncolored. The school district has advised parents to consider the size of school-issued laptops in their choice of backpack for their child.
In addition to clear backpacks, pupils will also be allowed to carry clear totes, purses, and bags. These can include a front pocket mesh organizer and mesh pockets, but opaque padded backs are banned to ensure complete visibility through the backpack. The only exception to this rule is the bottom of the bag.
The new regulations also dictate that only small school or company logos are allowed on backpacks, while large logos, monograms, or any significant visual design obstructions are not permissible. Non-clear items, like athletic or spirit bags, instrument cases and lunch boxes may be allowed, but may be subject to inspection.
Special allowances will be made for medically necessary items and equipment, following necessary inspection. Students can carry small personal items in makeup pouches or purses inside their bags, but these must be no larger than around 6” x 9” x 5″ and may be inspected.
Alongside this policy change, Horry County Schools plans to introduce other security measures. These include installing OPENGATE freestanding detection systems in all schools to efficiently screen individuals carrying bags, backpacks and purses for multi-caliber weapons and explosives. The district also plans to hire additional security personnel for all middle and high schools to process students and visitors as they arrive on site. However, this hiring process is paused until the appointment of a new superintendent.
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
