At last week’s APA meeting, we discussed a school dress code. We have modelled our dress code on the one at Glenview, which is actually similar to most schools in TDSB.
In the past couple of years, we have shared this dress code with Grade 6 students as they prepare for the transition to middle school. It has become increasingly relevant for younger students as well, as they need to get used to the concept of appropriate dress for the learning environment before the pre-adolescent stage sets in. Recently we have noticed some changes in head gear fashions and students are coming to school with a variety of styles, which are a creative expression of their individual tastes. As cute as they are, we also need to remind them that hats are not worn in the classroom, but can be worn during recreational times during the school day. The general guidelines are:
- Tank tops must have a 3 finger width strap
- Shorts or skirts must be as long as or longer than the length at the end of the child’s fingers when standing straight with arms down at sides.
- T shirts must be long enough so that there is no exposure of the midriff, and are not worn off the shoulder.
- No “low riding” of jeans or other pants.
- Hats are to be off inside the school, but can be worn outside at recess or lunch.
Please have a conversation with your child(ren) about the concept of appropriateness. For example, we do not wear the same clothes to school or work as we wear at the beach, at the cottage or sometimes on a weekend in our back yard or at the park. If a student comes to school dressed in a way that does not follow this dress code, a note will be written in the agenda reminding parents to check this message. A second time will mean a phone call home. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.