Story originally printed in the Coulee News or online at www.couleenews.com
Published - Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Temps crank up the ‘heat’ on dress code rules
With the arrival of spring, many students begin to peel off the layers of heavy winter clothing. Gone are the socks as sandals begin to appear, along with shorts, mini skirts and halter tops.
Oftentimes, today’s teen styles are too skin-baring for the classroom setting.
As a result, West Salem High School’s administration has put the student body on alert that the school will be enforcing its dress code policies, particularly in regard to female attire. In addition to clarifying what the school’s dress code policy is and reminding them that it will be enforced, the administration has warned students that, if necessary, they may be sent home for a change of clothes.
Principal Troy Gunderson recently addressed the entire female portion of the student body to remind them about what is and is not acceptable clothing at school. The girls were reminded that they must wear clothing fit for a place of business, not a place just to socialize.
“Every year, it seems that the issue comes up when the weather gets warmer,” Gunderson said. “We review our policy that is in place ... Our goal is to (be) consistent and keep West Salem first class.”
While the clothing trends are ever-changing, for the school to keep a consistent, up-to-standards policy in place, the school and its administrators must keep a watchful eye for distasteful clothing choices.
Gunderson said that the fashion industry itself is more to blame than the students. Brands like Hollister, American Eagle, Abercrombie & Fitch among others have all been producing clothing that push the envelope more and more each year. They are among the most popular clothing brands in schools, and the clothing they sell is what the students buy.
The issue is not solely at the high school level, nor is it limited to problems with female apparel. Middle school administrators also addressed it with their students as well, and boys were reminded that the standards also mean refraining from wearing oversized shorts and pants that hang so low that the boxers or briefs are revealed.
As Gunderson points out, keeping West Salem schools first class will take a cooperative effort from all fronts, the students, their parents and, most importantly, the administration and staff that must regulate the dress code.
“Styles change. Each year seems to bring a different issue,” Gunderson said. “In the past, we had spaghetti straps and bare midriffs. This year, the style has been to wear tops that are cut too low along with shorts and skirts that are too short.”
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