The Dress Code Dilemma
The return to school has come with some rather warm weather and with the warm weather have come remarks on what is appropriate clothing for school.
Girls at Leyden have lost count of the amount of times they have gotten in trouble for “inappropriate clothing.”
Girls and school officials alike seem fed up with the constant arguments on what’s considered appropriate.
Senior Natalia Guadalupe, who has been told to change her shorts said, “I was wearing some lounging shorts and I had to call my mom to bring me different shorts.
Then there are those instances where someone who is wearing a garment similar to someone else gets in trouble while the other student does not.
So, how are students supposed to know what they can and cannot wear?
According to the East Leyden Parent Handbook, which can be found on the Leyden home page under the “General Info” tab, “clothing that is considered revealing is prohibited. Such clothing includes, but is not limited to, bare midriffs, holes in clothing, low cut tops, low-hanging pants, and short shorts. Sleeve length and opening must be appropriate for school setting.”
Dean Mike Grosch’s recent morning announcements have made us all aware that this is a rule that will be addressed and enforced.
Yet, some rules, such as the “finger rule”, leaves girls frustrated as there are have limited options on shorts to buy, and everyone’s body is different so how can one rule apply to all.
As well all have seen, sometimes authorities have a right to call down students for what they are wearing. Low cut shirts and shorts where one’s butt cheeks are visible should be times when students should be sent down to the office to change.
We are all old enough to interpret what we think we should wear, the issue is, we need to start changing.
Should there more specific and written rules on what can and cannot be worn? Should Leyden go to the next step and start talking uniforms? Should we establish a joint committee that meets every spring to revisit and address issues with the dress code?
Leave us a comment with your thoughts.
My name is Nicole Covello and I'm a student at East Leyden High school. I'm currently enrolled in English IV Journalism and was in English II Honors Journalism my sophomore year.
I'm hoping to go to University of Chicago, Illinois next year for Social...
Ricki • Jan 11, 2014 at 12:22 pm
I think our uniform rules are apt. I also believe that uniforms have the psychological effect of perhaps boring students and scholars but boredom is another dangerous topic because it can lead to depression, and much more. Perhaps rules should include specifics such as, shorts that reach the knee, etc. Fool proof rules that can apply to all regardless of their body difference. 😛
Sandra • Sep 27, 2013 at 12:30 pm
I agree! School officials should not be able to dictate how we are dressed as long as we’re not showing too much. What’s next? Uniforms?