The average cost for back-to-school supplies for families is now ... (WJET/WFXP) – On Sunday, July 28, over $3 million worth of free backpacks will be given out to more than 120,000 students ...

Learn more As a high school teacher ... in-store or from a retailer that offers free returns. Comfort and support: Look for a backpack with a padded back and wide padded shoulder straps.

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.

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.