Backpacks at School:  Convenience vs. Controversy - January 31, 2002

Citing safety and budgetary issues, many high schools have eliminated the use of lockers and students have been left to rely on backpacks to store books and other school supplies.  But concern is arising over the weight of backpacks and the potential to cause health-related problems to students.  Why have so many schools made the decision to do away with lockers and at what cost does it come to students’ health?  Can we put a price on health or should health concerns take priority over safety and cost concerns?