CLAYTON COUNTY, Ga. — New rules are going into effect for Clayton County Public Schools.
All students now have specific requirements to get into sporting events district-wide.
On Monday, the district released a statement enhancing the district's security measures. However, the district rolled some of the measures back on Tuesday, citing community input.
"In response to feedback from our community, the district has adjusted the recently communicated enhanced safety measures for athletic events. These changes aim to allow students broader opportunities to participate in games beyond their immediate school community while maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment. The Clayton County Public Schools' Athletics Department remains committed to implementing all necessary safety protocols.
- High School students must present their school-issued identification card to gain entry to any sporting event.
- They are permitted to attend games or activities involving their school or other high schools, provided they have their school-issued identification card.
- Elementary and Middle School students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. No drop-offs are allowed.
These revised attendance conditions will take effect immediately.
*The school district later clarified that students can attend other games in the district with a parent.
Mother-of-two Ashely Mullins is hoping it won't change the student's experience.
“It’s a part of high school, going to the games and cheering for your friends," Mullins said.
Parents also wondered how the school system would enforce these rules. A district spokesperson said members from the safety and security staff as well as stadium workers will check for proper identification and validate tickets.
In another statement, the district said:
"As with all measures, there is the potential to be some issues. We apologize for any level of inconvenience this may occur, however, we are ultimately concerned about providing a safe and secure environment for all participants and spectators. Our plan is to be consistent while at the same time using good judgment without marginalizing or minimizing expectations."
Clayton County parent Christyl Davis said she felt the rules were a bit excessive.
“I absolutely get it, but a lot of parents have kids in multiple schools," Davis continued. "And our kids want to go see their friends.”
Mullins said her kids go to a performing arts school and charter school. She has some ideas on how to relax the rules.
“Maybe they can still attend their zoning school athletic activities," Mullins said.
However, parents who agree with the rules had a lengthy discussion on social media. Many said there have been fights and unruly activity in the stands that led to this decision.
“We have got to get our parents more involved with their kids to know what they’re doing, where they’re at," Davis said.
A representative of the school district added that age doesn't matter. The rules still apply to students 18 and older. If a student forgets their identification or doesn't have one, they can pull up their schedule on the Infinite Campus App. This adjustment is being made collectively by district-level leadership. Students who violate or cause disturbances will be given the appropriate consequences as stated in the student code of conduct.