ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — On January 6, 2025, Albuquerque Public Schools implemented a policy requiring students at certain campuses to use clear backpacks as a safety measure, instead of traditional cloth or canvas bags. This initiative is aimed at preventing students from sneaking weapons onto school grounds, which has become an issue in recent years.
During the 2024-25 school year, APS confiscated 10 guns from students. So far in the 2025-26 school year, 14 guns have already been seized, even though the academic year is only halfway through.
The five middle schools that have adopted this policy are Wilson Middle School, Kennedy Middle School, Hayes Middle School, Washington Middle School, and Cleveland Middle School. According to KOAT, Del Norte High School will follow suit in August of this year.
KOAT reported that APS Superintendent Dr. Blakey said, “Clear backpacks will make it tougher for students to conceal things that they shouldn’t have, like weapons.”
APS has spent more than $60 million on physical security upgrades, including surveillance cameras and fencing, according to Deputy Superintendent Antonio Gonzales. District leaders say the investments are aimed at improving safety and helping students feel more secure on campus.
