Backpack PTA Presentation12/13/17

The GoalGoal

● Eliminate the use of bookbags moving from period to period throughout the school day.

Rationale

● Research based- health of our students● Safety

Student Perspective● Have all materials in backpack● No locker- helps to be prompt to class● Difficulty opening locker● Only way to have all supplies and be responsible under current teacher

expectations

FFMS Staff Perspective● Individual binders per class facilitate student organization● Students may forget items ● Archived materials

FFMS Parent Perspective● Remaining organized for each class

○ Class to class○ Bringing materials home○ Test/Quiz Preparation○ Absences

● What else?○ Personal items needed○ Time for locker?○ Executive functioning concerns being managed○ Place for supplies○ Time concerns○ Athletes extra “stuff”○ Too many binders

Game Plan- Moving Forward● Working with teachers to find alternate ways to manage, organize, and

store materials ● Phasing in more technology and technology tools

● Homework assignments posted online

Let’s try to lighten the load!● The Student Advisory Council researched the negative

effects of heavy backpacks on students and presented their findings to our Administration and 6th grade staff.

● Based on their research 6th graders are strongly encouraged NOT to carry heavy backpacks.

● Using and organizing your locker are both very important parts of being a successful students.

● Students are encouraged to carry sling bags during the school day.

● View video for suggestions: How to organize your locker