Number: 221
Section: Pupils
Title: Dressing and Grooming
Date Adopted: June 25, 1979
Date Reviewed: May 25, 2004

Purpose
The Board recognizes that each student's mode of dress and grooming is a manifestation of personal style and individual preference. The Board will not interfere with the right of students to make decisions regarding their appearance except when their choices affect the educational program of the schools or the health and safety of others or themselves.

Authority
The Board authorizes the Superintendent or designee to enforce school regulations prohibiting student dress or grooming practices which:

  1. present a hazard to the health or safety of the student or to others in the school,
  2. materially interfere with schoolwork, create disorder, or disrupt the educational program,
  3. cause excessive wear or damage to school property,
  4. prevent the student from achieving his or her own educational objectives because of blocked vision or restricted movement.

Delegation of Responsibility
The Superintendent or designee shall develop procedures to implement this policy which:

  1. designates the building principal to monitor student dress and grooming in his or her building.
  2. invite the participation of staff and students in the preparation of a dress code, which may specify prescribed dress and grooming practices, but may not amplify the rationale for prohibition established by the Board policy.
  3. instruct staff members to demonstrate by example and precept wholesome attitudes toward neatness, cleanliness, propriety, modesty and good sense in attire and appearance.
  4. insure that all procedures implementing this policy impose only minimum and necessary restrictions on the exercise of the student's taste and individuality