Dear Duncanville ISD Families:
As we prepare for the first day of school on Thursday, August 10, we are excited to provide a “red carpet welcome” for our students. Additionally, in Duncanville ISD we are committed to providing a safe environment where our students can thrive. In line with this commitment, beginning in the spring semester we are requiring that kindergarten through 12th grade students carry a clear or mesh backpack.
Parents, we have heard you and we appreciate your feedback. Being sensitive to the timing of this announcement, the district will provide each student with a backpack. These backpacks will be distributed prior to the start of the spring semester.
Clear and mesh backpacks offer an added layer of safety by allowing us to quickly identify the contents, thereby enhancing our ability to maintain a secure learning environment. Students will be able to carry a small non-clear pouch in their backpacks to store personal items such as money, cell phones, and hygiene products.
While clear or mesh backpacks and personal item pouches are welcome, items that are non-clear, such as purses, athletic bags, or instrument cases will be subject to being searched in alignment with our comprehensive security protocols.
District leaders acknowledge that clear or mesh backpacks alone may not address all safety concerns. This new expectation is part of a broader approach to enhance student and staff safety.
Sincerely,
Dr. Marc Smith
Superintendent