Thomas Marnella | Social Media Editor
October 10, 2025
In recent years, San Clemente High School students have begun to ditch their backpacks and opt for a stylish and convenient binder instead. This trend might appear to be the obvious choice on campus; however, outside of SCHS, not many high school students bring binders exclusively. Binders seem to be popular among the student population, but what makes them the preferred choice? Besides their aesthetic appeal, binders are practical, comfortable, and promote organization.
For some students, the appeal of a binder comes from its stylistic impact. When asked why she chose a binder over a backpack, sophomore Mykah Shalvoy replied, “I really did it because I love purses…they make outfits more cute, and obviously I can’t fit my stuff in a purse, so I have to carry a binder.” Many students find binders more aesthetically pleasing than traditional backpacks. To others, the binder itself becomes its own fashion accessory. Some also enjoy customizing their binder with stickers, pins, artwork, and even keychains.
Not only do students bring binders for fashion, but it is also a practical measure. One perk of bringing a binder is its ease of travel between classes. Sophomore Maya Saggar added, “[backpacks] just get annoying. So it’s easier when I just have my binder. It’s already in my hands. I just set it down on the table and boom.” Students who carry binders are also forced to stay organized; they can be separated into tabs for each class, allowing students to find their assignments faster. This extra time allows each student to gain a little more time learning every period.
Additionally, decreased pain is also a notable bonus. The National Spine Health Foundation claims, “Heavy or improperly worn backpacks can cause back pain in children. [It is] crucial for parents and educators to recognize these risks.” Some other students at SCHS also noted the additional shoulder pain from the backpack straps.
With the majority of SCHS students switching to bringing just a binder, it is clear why it has caught on. Binders reduce the risks of physical strain and allow students to express themselves through their increased customization and their accessory-like nature. Although not common at other schools, SCHS students understand the value of leaving their backpacks at home.
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