9.16 APS' Clear Bag, E-Ticket Procedures for Sporting Events Provide More Safety and Efficiency

ATLANTA PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Office of Communications and Public Engagement
130 Trinity Avenue SW | Atlanta, Georgia 30303

Seth Coleman, Director of Media Relations & Television Broadcast
404-802-2891, office
404-406-5570, cell
seth.coleman@atlanta.k12.ga.us

   

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                     

September 16, 2021

 

Atlanta Public Schools’ Clear Bag, E-Ticket Procedures for Sporting Events Provide More Safety and Efficiency

Both initiatives are designed to provide a safer,
more efficient entry experience for spectators

 

ATLANTA – To provide a safer environment for the public and significantly expedite fan entry into Atlanta Public Schools Athletic venues, the APS Office of Safety and Security is reminding the public that the district has established Operational Clear Bag and E-Ticket Procedures.  Both were initially implemented last month.

Operational Clear Bag Procedure

This initiative limits the size and type of bags that may be brought into stadiums, gymnasiums, and other athletic fields. 

Prohibited items include but are not limited to purses larger than a 4.5" x 6.5” clutch bag, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, grocery bags, cinch bags, non-approved chair backs and seat cushions, luggage of any kind, computer bags and camera bags or any bag larger than the permissible size.

The new procedure is similar to those adopted by numerous college stadiums, the NFL and other venues that host other entertainment events.

The new procedure is also in line with the district’s COVID-19 mitigation protocols as spectators will spend less time waiting in lines.

Fans will be able to carry the following style and size bag at stadium plaza areas, stadium gates, or when approaching lines of fans awaiting entry into the stadium: 

  • Tote bags that are clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC and do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12”
  • One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar), AND/OR
  • Small clutch bags with or without a handle or strap, no larger than 4.5” x 6.5” (approximately the size of a hand), can be taken into the stadium with one of the clear plastic bag options
  • Diapers and wipes may be carried in a permissible 12”x6”x12” clear bag (diaper bags are not permitted).

 

Metal detector screening and a search of all items being carried in may take place at all APS Athletic Venues. There are no provisions available to store or safeguard any prohibited bags.

An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at a gate by respective gate supervisor. 

Non-approved chair backs/seat cushions include large traditional seat cushions that have pockets, zippers, compartments, or covers.

 

E-Tickets

This initiative is in place at all athletic events charging admission at Lakewood Stadium, Henderson Stadium and the Walden Athletic Complex. It is also in effect at all school-based athletic facilities hosting competitions where a ticket must be purchased for entry.

Through an agreement with GoFan, those wishing to attend games will be able to purchase tickets through the APS GoFan page. An e-ticket will be sent to the purchaser’s mobile device, which will be scanned at the stadium or school for entry into the game.

The new e-ticket initiative will allow APS to operate a more efficient and professional ticket gate process, while creating a safer experience for fans. Purchasing tickets online allows fans to easily access and share tickets, via email or text, without standing in long lines.

Parents and fans are encouraged to purchase their tickets online prior to reaching the facility. For convenience, signs will be set up at the venue to help guide them through the online purchasing process.

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About Atlanta Public Schools

Atlanta Public Schools is one of the largest school districts in the state of Georgia, serving approximately 51,000 students across 87 schools and five programs. The District is organized into nine K-12 clusters with 64 traditional schools, 19 charter schools, six partner schools, two alternative schools and five alternative programs. To learn more about Atlanta Public Schools, follow us on social media – Twitter (@apsupdate), Facebook (Atlanta Public Schools), and Instagram (apsupdate) – or visit us online at www.atlantapublicschools.us.