Fans heading to Friday night football at McLean High School and Langley High School will pass through weapons detectors before entering the stands this fall.

Fairfax County Public Schools announced Aug. 12 that all spectators at varsity football home games district-wide must undergo security screening using the same weapons detection technology students already walk through each school morning. The systems were installed in FCPS middle and high schools during the 2025-26 school year and will now extend to game-day gates.

A strict bag policy accompanies the new screening. Backpacks, purses, fanny packs, tote bags, outside food and beverages, and sporting equipment are all prohibited. Spectators may carry only clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags no larger than 12 by 6 by 12 inches, or a small clutch no larger than 4.5 by 6.5 inches. Medical and diaper bags are allowed but subject to inspection.

Arrive early. FCPS said the screening process will add time at the gates and is encouraging spectators to plan accordingly.

The district said in its FCPS This Week newsletter that the screening will help ensure safe, efficient entry for all spectators at home games.

Middle school students and younger must be accompanied by a responsible adult who stays with them for the entire event.

The screening policy is part of a broader back-to-school safety push ahead of the first day of school on Monday, Aug. 24. FCPS previously opened a public comment period on its revised agreement with Fairfax County police governing school resource officers at McLean-area schools.

Full details on screening procedures and bag requirements are available on the FCPS website.