Preserving a beneficial learning environment and assuring the safety and well-being of all students are primary concerns of the board of directors.

Students' choices in matters of dress should be made in consultation with their parents/guardians. Student dress shall only be regulated when, in the judgment of school administrators, there is a reasonable expectation that:

A.    A health or safety hazard shall be presented by the student's dress or appearance including possible membership in a gang or hate groups;
B.    Damage to school property shall result from the student's dress; or
C.    A material and substantial disruption of the educational process will result from the student’s dress or appearance.
 

For the purpose of this policy, a material and substantial disruption of the educational process may be found to exist when a student's conduct is inconsistent with any part of the educational mission of the school district. Prohibited conduct includes the use of lewd, sexual, drug, tobacco or alcohol-related messages, and gang-related apparel.

The uniforms of nationally recognized youth organizations and clothing worn in observance of a student’s religion are not subject to this policy, as long as they do not materially or substantially disrupt the educational process.

The superintendent shall establish procedures providing guidance to students, parents/guardians and staff regarding appropriate student dress in school or while engaging in extracurricular activities. Such procedures shall ensure that any student wearing, carrying, or displaying gang- related apparel, or exhibiting behavior or gestures which symbolize gang membership, or causing and/or participating in activities which intimidate or affect the attendance of another student shall be asked, with notice to his or her parents/guardians, to make appropriate corrections and be subject to discipline if the corrections are not undertaken.

 

Cross References:

Board Policy
3220 Freedom of Expression

Legal References:
RCW 28A.320.140 Schools with Special standards

WAC
180-40-215 Student Rights
180-40-225 School district rules defining misconduct

First Reading: May 7, 2002
Adopted by the Board: July 16, 2002