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Backpacks at GCMS

Backpacks at GCMS

backpack wih school supplies hanging out of itStarting this year, as part of our Distraction-Free Schools policy, all student backpacks must be stored in lockers during the school day. While backpacks can be convenient, they also bring distractions like lost items, tag or strap pulling, swinging bags, snack sharing, and access to personal items during class. These disruptions take away from learning time.

What this means for students:

  • Students will only need to leave their hallway for classes 1–2 times per day with the new building layout.
  • They have 4 minutes between classes to swap supplies as needed.
  • Students should plan to carry their laptop case, charger, water bottle, and class binder with them.
  • Lockers are the hub for all personal items—snacks, hygiene products, and extras.

This is not a new idea—many other middle schools in Monroe County already follow this practice, and GCMS itself required students to keep backpacks in lockers before COVID. In many ways, we are simply returning to the way things worked prior to March 2020.

  • This change aligns with the New York State Distraction-Free Schools policy and helps reduce distractions caused by backpacks in class and in hallways. Strap pulling, swinging bags, lost items, snack sharing, and access to personal belongings all interfere with learning.

  • No. Smaller purses, tote bags, and drawstring bags must also be kept in lockers.

  • Yes. Students can set up their lockers during open building hours on:

    • Monday, Aug. 25, from 1–4 p.m.
    • Thursday, Aug. 28, from 4–7 p.m.

    Families who cannot attend may contact the main office to schedule another time. In addition, students will practice using lockers during our Starting the Year Off Right program on the first day of school.

  • Students can report locker issues in their grade-level office using a maintenance sheet. Most problems will be fixed the same day. Administrators and facilities staff can open lockers immediately if needed, and students will not be marked late if a locker issue causes a delay.

  • Students must use their district-issued laptop case, which comes with a handle and shoulder strap. Each student will also receive a district-provided supply pouch that can be carried separately or snapped into a binder.

  • Yes. Students may stop at their lockers to pick up a hygiene product. Feminine hygiene products are also available in the health office.

  • Students won’t need to carry everything at once. With the new building configuration, most classes are located within the same hallway. Students will have four minutes between classes to stop at their lockers and switch out supplies.

  • These items are still permitted and can fit inside the pencil pouch each student will receive on the first day of school.

    • 12 minutes before the first class of the day to get off the bus, go to lockers, and grab breakfast if needed.
    • 4 minutes between each class period.
    • Additional locker visits can be made with an ePass if necessary.