5511 - DRESS AND GROOMING

Each principal, in consultation with his/her staff, shall develop a dress code which complies with Board of Education Policy 5511. The code should delineate what types of clothing or manner of clothing does not comply with Board policy and why such clothing or manner of wear is not permitted.

It is essential that any such restriction on students also applies to building administrators and all professional staff so that District leadership of students is by example.

The administrator shall provide an appeal procedure to review decision of the staff in situations involving expressive conduct which the student believes is legally protected.

The appeal procedure shall include:

A. a written request to the District Administrator;

B. a conference with the student and if the student is a minor with the student and his/her parent(s);

C. If the student is granted permission to wear particular clothing or groom in a particular fashion, the student shall be provided with a written copy of the permission for his/her use while in school.

© Neola 2008

5511 - DRESS AND GROOMING

The Board of Education recognizes that each student's mode of dress and grooming is a manifestation of personal style and individual preference. The Board will not interfere with the right of students and their parents to make decisions regarding their appearance, except when their choices interfere with the educational program of the schools.

Accordingly, the District Administrator shall establish such grooming guidelines as are necessary to promote discipline, maintain order, secure the safety of students, and provide a healthy environment conducive to academic purposes. Such guidelines shall prohibit student dress or grooming practices which:

A. present a hazard to the health or safety of the student himself/herself or to others in the school;

B. interfere with school work, create disorder, or disrupt the educational program;

C. cause excessive wear or damage to school property;

D. prevent the student from achieving his/her own educational objectives because of blocked vision or restricted movement.

Such guidelines shall establish the dress requirements for members of the athletic teams, bands, and other school groups when representing the District at a public event.

The District Administrator shall develop administrative guidelines to implement this policy which:

A. instruct staff members to demonstrate, by example and precept, personal neatness, cleanliness, propriety, modesty, and good sense in attire and appearance;

B. ensure that all administrative guidelines impose only minimum and necessary restrictions on the exercise of the student's taste and individuality.

Students who violate the foregoing rules will not be admitted to class and may be suspended from school.

If the clothing cannot be removed, the student may be sent home after contact is made with the student's parent/guardian.

120.13(1), Wis. Stats.

© Neola 2007