The average cost for back-to-school supplies for families is now around $890. Families are invited to attend their local event, and each present child will receive one backpack while supplies last.

Though backpack bans are rare, school leaders across the state face a similar imperative to protect students from violence by any means necessary, oftentimes with limited resources at their disposal.

Students at Washington Community High School are being asked not to bring backpacks to school the rest of the week after possible risk to student safety was made known to school and police officials.