CMS spent nearly $442K for nearly 46,000 clear backpacks as solution to prevent weapons in schools

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is finding solutions to combat students bringing guns and weapons into schools.

One of those options is clear backpacks.

CMS spent nearly $442,000 for about 46,000 clear backpacks.

Related: Clear backpacks, metal detectors, safety screenings. CMS superintendent brings up possible solutions after guns recovered in schools

Superintendent Earnest Winston says the backpacks will be given only to high school students.

In an email to parents, Winston stated the district is also talking to manufacturers about metal detectors and safety wands, doubling random safety screenings at middle and high schools, an anonymous reporting system for students and working with community partners.

‘Guns are a symptom of a bigger problem’: Office of Juvenile Justice launching programs to prevent weapons being brought to schools

County, city, and school leaders have all condemned the violence.

‘Safety is on the line:’ CMS students, parents demanding more immediate solutions to violence in schools

OJJ Deputy Secretary William Lassiter says the number of weapons on school campuses has doubled since before the pandemic. In addition, nearly 500 weapons were found in schools across the state during the first two months of school.

A records request with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools confirmed at least 192 weapons were found from August 25 to December 2, 18 of those weapons were guns.

The majority of students bringing weapons to schools are 16 and 17 years old.

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