Quick! Administration mandates a change in classroom policy. This year, the school has issued a backpack safety ban inside the classrooms. Instead, students are allowed to bring cinch sacks or messenger bags and are heavily encouraged to use their lockers. The ban is because of tripping hazards in the classroom; furthermore, teachers had a say in whether the backpacks should be banned or not.
“I would say that I am in favor of no backpacks in the classroom,” World Languages Department Chair Nicole Lorenzo said. “I know it’s difficult for the students to adjust and start to use their lockers once again, but I do think that once they get into the adjustment and they feel comfortable with their locker, it’ll just be the new norm, but I do think that it is a good idea to get no backpacks in the room.”
In addition, this ban was able to be passed because most teachers are in favor of it. There are various reasons why backpacks are considered tripping hazard safety issues. Security is a top priority for Henry Ford II, and this is an issue that has prominently concerned it.
“Math classes are big enough where we do not have a spatial problem,” Math Department Chair Kristen McGunnigle said. “The backpacks were never an issue. However, I do understand the security of backpacks and do appreciate the limited use of that.”
Although most teachers are in favor of the ban, some teachers aren’t affected by it. Some perspectives are different based on classroom size. The school has become aware of the classes that have a disadvantage in space, and therefore more of a risk to trip on backpacks.
“I am in strong disapproval of the backpack rule,” junior Dod Gjerkaj said. “My backpack is North Face. It costed over 100 dollars, so I’m using it because I just feel very strong opposition to the new backpack rule. Why would I need to buy a new backpack if this one fits around my back, and my seat, and my locker?”
Many students have complaints about the ban, as they have gotten comfortable with using backpacks instead of lockers. The new rule was brought upon unexpectedly at the end of the 2024 school year. Given these points, administration mandates a change in classroom policy.
