CMS bans metal 3-ring binders

CMS recommends alternatives like pocket folders and plastic binders for students.

The following article appeared in the August 19, 2024, edition of The Charlotte Ledger, an e-newsletter with smart and original local news for Charlotte. We offer free and paid subscription plans. More info here.

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Binders and rolling backpacks are ‘a main source of false alarms’ with school metal detectors, school district says

With back-to-school shopping season in full-swing, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools families are learning about a new rule that’s altering supply lists: metal 3-ring binders are not allowed in CMS schools this year. 

The reason is because the metal binders set off metal detectors that are now installed in the entrances to all CMS schools, creating false alarms and causing staff to have to search bags and creating backups in getting kids into school. (If you’ve ever seen the hordes of students pass through the metal detectors at big schools during peak morning arrival times, it’s impressive.) 

CMS officials sent us this statement in response to questions about the metal binder ban: 

As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance school safety and security, Charlotte- Mecklenburg Schools implemented measures to reduce the number of bag searches while increasing time to access breakfast and classroom instruction.

After thorough research, we have identified Metal 3-Ring binders, rolling backpacks and backpacks with metal frames as a main source of false alarms in our weapon detection systems. As a result, we have made the decision to request that these items not be brought into schools.

CMS officials did recommend some binder workarounds students can take to keep their papers organized in the new school year, noting that “suggested alternatives to assist our students include pocket folders, plastic 3-ring binders, or spiral and composition notebooks.” —Cristina Bolling

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