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The changes take effect on Halloween night, Lunenburg school officials say. As of Thursday, Oct. 31, there are some policy changes for those attending any sporting event at Central High. That goes for students, staff, their families and other members of the community. 

“It is for all sporting events, not just football,” said Lunenburg Schools Family Engagement Coordinator MeriPage Spencer. “We just want to do everything we can to keep everyone safe.” 

As part of the changes, only clear bags will be allowed on the property. That includes clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags not to exceed 12 x 24. Spencer said exceptions will be made for diaper and medical bags, but both of those will be subject to search by event personnel. 

Also, no pets will be allowed on school grounds or within the event venue, with the exception of service animals. Central High staff are also cracking down on smoking. There will be no smoking, vaping, marijuana or tobacco products allowed on the property, along with no outside food or drink. And as a friendly reminder, staff also point out that alcohol is not permitted on school grounds. 

What about family members? 

Central High students will be allowed to attend events without an adult. However, they must abide by all rules and regulations. Any student that fails to do this will be asked to leave and not return without adult supervision in the future. Also, all other children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult 21 years old or older, in order to attend events. That adult will be responsible for both supervising the child and their behavior. 

As for what defines “belligerent” or “bad” behavior? That includes people being aggressive, using threatening language or gestures, getting into physical altercations or being publicly intoxicated. You will also be asked to leave if you use excessive profanity or display disruptive conduct that interferes with the event.

More policy changes

Anyone caught harassing someone, verbally abusing someone, refusing to follow instructions from event personnel or showing any type of behavior that poses a safety threat will be asked to leave. The event personnel also have the authority to request that anyone attending an event leave immediately if they’re showing signs of bad behavior. If you refuse to do it voluntarily, then law enforcement will remove you and you may possibly be banned from attending future events at Central High.