No Bags Allowed At Joppatowne H.S. Athletic Events

HARFORD COUNTY, MD — As athletic events resumed over the weekend for Joppatowne High School, officials enforced the temporary new rule that no bags were allowed at games. The rule is one of several being enforced by school officials after the fatal shooting of 15-year-old Warren Curtis Grant in a school bathroom.

Joppatowne High School Principal Melissa Williams emphasized the no bags rule at games in a video shared with students' families and guardians last week as students prepared to return to school.

"As we process all of this feedback, one immediate item we can act on is to not allow any bags into our athletic events this weekend. We anticipate slight adjustments and additional details after this weekend. We ask for your understanding and cooperation this weekend in providing this additional layer of security at our athletic events," Williams said in the video.

Students returned to Joppatowne High School last week without being able to take bookbags, backpacks and large purses to school. Those who brought bags large enough to hold a laptop or book were stopped and searched, and the bags confiscated until a parent or guardian could pick up the bag, Williams said in the video. New lockers are being installed this week that are bigger and larger bags must be stored inside lockers instead of carried around the building. Students who do not abide by the new safety guidelines will be searched and potentially face disciplinary action, Williams said in the video.

Read more:

• Extra Police Present At Joppatowne HS As Kids Return To Class, Bags Not Allowed
• National Foundation Hosts GoFundMe For 15-Year-Old Joppatowne High School Shooting Victim
• Teen Charged With Murder After Joppatowne High School Shooting
• Student Fatally Shot At Joppatowne HS Identified, Teen Suspect Faces Adult Charges
• Teen School Shooting Suspect Denied Bail, Return To School Delayed At Joppatowne High
• Schools Closed As Community Mourns Student's Fatal Shooting, Counseling Available