Sept. 24, 2021 opinions
03
Staff Editorial:
Times change, trends change
Dress code requires more consistency, clarity
*StaffEditorials reflect the majority opinion of the Image staff
How we dress is the simplest, yet arguably the most telling, form of self-expression students have. Time and dress codes have progressed. In 2017, hats were allowed to be worn on campus for the first time, and the school day still support[ed] a positive learning environment, as the dress code requires. Rockwoods Executive Director of Student Services, Terry Harris, has the right idea by planning a meeting with administration and students to address any concerns or questions students have regarding dress codes. Harris has emphasized that students opinions are valuable and will be listened to as such. We acknowledge that certain aspects of the dress code cannot be changed or altered, such as straps that prevent a shirt from being pulled down. However, nowadays we must ask this real question: which is scarier - an exposed belly button or nose? Walking through the halls this year, we see far more of the latter. And, that concerns us much more. And, for both, the real issue is inconsistent enforcement. Whether it's a difference in teachers or activities, the dress code is not clearly defined or enforced across the school. For the uniforms of certain sports and activities, the dress code can and should be altered, but those changes should also be clearly defined and equally enforced and those exceptions need to be outlined in the student handbook, right next to the general dress code. Also, if a student gets dress coded by one staffmember, it needs to be for the same outfit any other staffmember would have disciplined them for. Defining policies clearly and making them easily accessible is essential to enforcement. But most important, is making sure that students understand the reasons that dress code policies are in place. If students dont understand the reason for the rules, they are less likely to follow them. art by caoimhe farris
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