SPRINGFIELD, Ga. — The Effingham County School District is implementing new safety measures for the 2026-27 school year aimed at speeding student entry into school buildings and enhancing campus security.

Ashley Kieffer, the district's director of safety, announced the changes in a video posted by the school district.

Beginning in August, students will no longer be permitted to bring metal cups or water bottles onto campus. Instead, students may only bring clear plastic cups and bottles.

According to Kieffer, metal containers frequently trigger the district's weapons detection systems, slowing student arrivals. He also said prohibited items can be concealed inside metal containers, making them more difficult to detect.

The district is also discouraging students from bringing three-ring binders with metal rings or metal spines and zippered notebooks, such as Trapper Keepers, because those items can also activate the weapons detectors and delay entry. Officials recommend using binders without metal components or zippers.

Kieffer encouraged students to bring only essential items to school, saying lighter backpacks will help speed the arrival process.

The district is also introducing a clear bag policy for visitors attending extracurricular activities beginning in August. While there are no size restrictions, all bags brought to athletic events and other extracurricular activities must be clear.

"The safety of our students and staff is our number one priority," Kieffer said in the video. "The safety of our students and staff is a shared responsibility, and we appreciate your understanding and support in these efforts."