BREAKING DOWN THE DRESS CODE

By NICOLE QUINONES

Each year students are given a code of conduct in their planner on the first day of school at Washingtonville High School.  One part of the code of conduct that students and teachers pay close attention to is the dress code. There is always a lot of talk about the way that students dress and whether or not it’s appropriate for the school atmosphere. This is completely understandable due to the fact that students come to school to learn and should not be distracted by inappropriateness. 

According to the code of conduct, the items of clothing that students are wearing should be appropriate and not offensive. Item number six of the code of the dress code states, “[attire should] not include items that are vulgar, obscene, and libelous or denigrate others on account of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, gender, sexual orientation or disability.” This is an important aspect of the dress code, especially considering that society has been struggling in the department of acceptance. It’s a relief to know that the school is making sure that nobody is offended or criticized for being who they are. In addition, the dress code also educates students that are wearing offensive garments that it isn’t acceptable in a school environment or in the real world, for that matter. 

NICOLE QUINONES FOR WIZARD WEEKLY

Though there are many rules in the dress code that benefit students, some might argue that the dress code can be considered sexist. Many of the rules like number two and number eight apply only to girls: no spaghetti straps, plunging neck lines and/or see through garments.  In addition, skirts, dresses, shorts and skorts have to be of a certain length. Again, these rules are understandable as the school truly wishes to prepare students for the real world. Upon graduation, students will have to enter college or the work force where inappropriate dress will not be tolerated in most cases. 

Girls feeling as if the dress code is sexist is understandable as well. When asked about her feelings about the dress code, senior Danielle Warn stated, “In today’s society, it is difficult to find clothes that are deemed acceptable. Not once has a male been told their outfit was inappropriate, however, girls are reprimanded for their choice in clothing excessively.”  Although this may be the opinion of one student, boys are also reprimanded for inappropriate clothing.  For instance, boys are often told to pull up their pants so their undergarments aren’t showing and are asked to take off their hats much more frequently than girls.

It’s important that the school and the students recognize both sides of the dress code. Overall, the school district is always going to have the students’ best interest at heart.  Likewise, students will always feel that some of the rules aren’t fair. It will always be a matter of opinion.