Safety Information
We have had safety requirements in place for all of our athletic events for many years. We expect that all of our students and game attendees adhere to these requirements:
- Alcohol, tobacco, firearms and other weapons are prohibited on school property.
- Backpacks are not allowed, and large bags are subject to search.
- Students and fans may be subject to wanding at all games.
- Student attendees must be currently enrolled at the school whose team is playing:
- High school students must have their student ID to attend games;
- Middle school students (and younger) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian when attending high school games and middle school games;
- Any student wishing to attend a game in which their school is not playing must be accompanied by their parent or guardian and must pay the adult ticket price.
- Attendees who leave the game early must purchase a ticket to re-enter and will not be allowed to re-enter after the third quarter begins.
- There is no loitering in the stadium, gym, or parking areas; attendees should be in their seats during the event.
Students attending athletic events must be picked up by a parent or guardian no later than 15 minutes after the game is over. Students who are not picked up within 15 minutes may not be permitted to attend future games or events. We will make announcements during the 4th quarter of each game and during the last five minutes of the game letting students know to contact their parents or guardians to be picked up. Please be sure that you are watching for this call if your student is attending an athletic event.
Clear Bag Policy
- Tulsa Public Schools will use enhanced safety and security measures at district athletic events including the use of weapons detection systems and wanding, and the implementation of clear bag procedures.
- Under the clear bag procedures, fans will be permitted one large clear bag or a small clutch-type handbag.
- The large clear bag must be no larger than 12” x 6” x 12” and made of clear material that may be easily searched. A gallon-sized Ziploc bag is a readily available clear bag that meets these requirements. The small clutch-type handbag can be used to carry personal items and will be subject to search by security officials or law enforcement. The clutch must be no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”. Every spectator, including children, may bring in one clear bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did TPS adopt these guidelines and procedures?
The safety of our students and guests is a top priority of Tulsa Public Schools Athletics. Events continue to shape the methods utilized for venue security and TPS, along with many other collegiate programs and professional leagues – has instituted this policy to enhance public safety and make venue access more efficient and secure by limiting the size and style of bags carried into our venues.
Are other athletic venues limiting bags?
Yes. In fact, there are several college venues that do not permit bags of any kind to enter their stadium. NFL stadiums, BOK Center, and NCAA events have similar clear bag policies plus pat downs and metal detector screenings. These limitations on bag size and style are a further enhancement for convenience and safety.
How does this improve public safety?
A clear bag can be easily searched and reduces faulty bag searches. It also supports the Department of Homeland Security’s “If You See Something, Say Something” campaign.
How is this policy more convenient for fans?
The clear bags will enable security to move fans through checkpoints much faster than in the past. A standard size bag eliminates the need for templates to check bag sizes. Clear bags allow staff to be more efficient and effective in keeping you safe by preventing dangerous items from entering the venue.
How many bags can each person bring into the venue?
Each ticketed attendee may bring in one (1) large clear bag – either a one-gallon Ziploc style bag or a clear bag that does not exceed 12” x 6” x 12” – plus a small clutch purse (the size of the palm of your hand) that does need exceed 4.5” x 6.5”. The small clutch allows privacy for small personal items and can be easily searched.
What if I have certain items that I need to bring into the venue due to medical reasons?
Fans needing to carry a bag for required medical supplies may enter after the bag is inspected.
Are all purses prohibited?
No. Small clutch purses, with or without a handle/strap, no larger than 4.5” x 6.5” are permitted. Purses larger than this are not permitted.
Do I have to put everything I am carrying into the permissible bag?
No. We are limiting only the type of bags carried into the venue, not items that you normally bring to a game. Therefore, you may carry items in your pockets or jacket (keys, makeup, feminine products, comb, phone, wallet, credit cards, etc.) if you choose not to put them in a clear bag or clutch. Fans may also carry a blanket, umbrella and/or an approved camera (less than 3” lenses).
What about blankets in cold weather?
Fans will be able to bring blankets by tossing them over their shoulder or arm as they arrive at the gate. This item can be easily screened.
Are seat cushions allowed to be carried into the venue?
Yes, only approved seat backs are allowed into the venue. Seat cushions must be 18” in width or less and cannot have compartments, zippers, or pockets.
What happens if I show up at the gate with a bag that is not permitted?
Fans carrying bags that do not comply with the Clear Bag Guidelines and Procedures will be asked to return them to their vehicles and transfer their belongings to an approved clear bag before entering the venue. Items may not be let outside the venue gates.
Will clear bags with patterns or oversized logos be permitted?
No. Bags covered with patterns or oversized logos that hinder the screening process, by not allowing security staff to view through and inside of the bag, will be denied entry. Fans will need to transfer personal items into an approved Clear Bag and return the prohibited bag to their vehicle.