Jennie K. Kolter Elementary School

Backpack Policy
Kolter Shared Decision Making Committee
(As stated at the 5-25-00 SDMC meeting)

Students in grades 3-5 may, at the parent's discretion, use a backpack with wheels within the following guidelines:

• The use of standard double-strap backpacks is encouraged.  To avoid back strain, ALWAYS use both straps and carry the pack high between the shoulders.

• Parents need to be aware that the size of the rolling backpack poses a serious storage problem within the classroom.

• Rolling backpacks are not permitted in Kindergarten or First grade, and are only permitted for Second graders if special circumstances exist.

• Rolling suitcases are not permitted.

• The S.D.M.C. decided that if, in the judgment of the parent, a child cannot manage without a rolling backpack, then they may be permitted for grades 3, 4, and 5.  The limitations are as follows:

1. The rolling backpack must be soft-sided.

2. It must have two straps for carrying on the back.

3. It must have a collapsible handle.

4. It must be able to sit upright.

5. The rolling backpack must not be larger than 22" tall (from the collapsed handle to the wheels), 15" wide and 12" deep (front to back).