Student Rights: No Backpacks
Becca Poole

A new policy stating that students are not permitted to bring backpacks upstairs in the library has been instituted this year.  Librarian Tracy Ansley and Upper School Dean of Students, Troy Weaver, were responsible for making this decision.  According to Ms. Ansley, “Last year, we had problems with thousands of dollars worth of books and some zip drives being stolen.  There was also a significant problem with food and drinks [being left in the library].  That, coupled with the loss of materials, caused me to think that leaving book bags downstairs was a good idea.”

While the reasons for this decision seem clear, some students disagree with it.  “There is only a limited amount of work a person can do without their books, and if someone is really determined to steal a zip drive or a book from the school, they can do it – with or without their backpacks,“ notes sophomore Brittany Kielhurn. Other students have also noticed the inconvenience this new policy has caused. Jeff Meade, a junior, says the he is forced to carry individual books upstairs, and to go downstairs again if he needs additional materials.

One main issue with the policy change is that it was not explained to students.  “I think it should have been made clear to us why we were stripped of the right to take our belongings upstairs,” says Rachel Jacobs, a sophomore. She goes on to say that she doesn’t object to the rule, only the lack of an explanation.  

However, some students agree with the policy. Michelle Bradicich says of the policy, “I think it’s fine,” calling the problems in the library “a major expense” and a “risk” to our school.

While there is some objection to the rule, “Down with the bag policy” exclaims Jeff Meade, many students accept the policy or seem only mildly irritated by it.

“There was some negative reaction at the beginning, but it has died down,” says Ms. Ansley. “This seemed like a simple solution to the problem, but I will always listen to different opinions.”