Morning comes around and the rush begins trying to find what to wear for the day. The closet is filled with things that would be desirable and would match perfectly with that shirt, but the realization sets in when reminded of the school dress code.

Students have a difficult time trying to find something to wear that’s their style but also within school guidelines. With prohibitions against wearing things like hats or clothes that promote certain beliefs, students find it difficult to express themselves in a way that they feel comfortable in.

“Why are some people allowed to wear something that expresses their religion but not all religions are allowed to do so?” senior Rachel Orth said. “Students should be able to express themselves in any way they choose, if that includes wearing a hat so be it.”

Even though clothes are things that people wear to cover themselves, the way they dress creates a statement. It gives outward insight into what they like, what they feel comfortable in and their personality in general.

“I’m told that the reason as to why we don’t wear hats in school is because of gangs,” senior Conrad Hoffman said. “I’m sorry but I’m the nerdiest person in school and do you think that because I wear hats and nerdy attire means that I’m a gang member? That’s a stupid analysis,” Hoffman said.

Another dress code policy that’s been in other schools is wearing uniforms. Uniforms are used to make sure that not only is the dress appropriate, but it also gives the uniforms a sense of equalization among students.

“I’d be fine with uniforms if they had more than just one type of uniform,” freshman Ryan Will said. “One for gold days and another for maroon.”

Overall school policies are put in place to not only set guidelines, but to protect students. Even though this is the year 2014, appropriate attire is still needed and it promotes modesty and respect towards one another.

“The dress policy doesn’t bother me, but I think things like hats could be allowed if it’s not obnoxious,” senior Thea Ferland said.

 15rarthur@usd489.com