St. Cloud Schools Tighten Security at Football and Soccer Games

ST. CLOUD (WJON News) -- The St. Cloud Area School District is implementing some new safety procedures for football and soccer games.

New rules are going into effect for some fall sports starting this week

Starting on Friday, football and soccer games will be moved to 4:30 p.m.; all spectators must pass through metal detectors, only clear bags no larger than 5-by-8 inches will be allowed, and all bags will be searched. Fans must also leave the grounds immediately after each game ends.

School district officials are taking precautions due to recent incidents across the state

The school district says the changes are a response to "an increase in safety-related incidents across Minnesota and locally and are intended to maintain safe, welcoming events for students, families, and community members."

Fans are encouraged to arrive early, bring only necessary items, and talk to their kids before attending games.

For now, the new rules are only for the fall sports season

The new restrictions and procedures will remain in place for the remainder of the fall season.

Questions should be directed to the District 742 Superintendent's Office.