School Dress Code Essay

Establishing and enforcing school dress codes is an important task for school administrators. Dress code policies can be difficult for administrators because they require a careful balance between respecting a student’s right to free expression while also creating a respectful, non-disruptive learning environment for all students, teachers, and faculty. While certain laws do protect a student’s right to free expression, school districts still retain a great deal of latitude when it comes to establishing dress code policy.
Tinker v. Des Moines Sch. Dist., 393 U.S. 503 (1969), Retrieved from http://caselaw.findlaw.com/us-supreme-court/393/503.html In Tinker v. Des Moines, the United States Supreme Court addressed the issues of school dress

Des Moines (School Dress Codes). This case found that limits on freedom of speech can only be imposed by schools when there is a genuine concern that clothing will cause disruption to the learning environment. Since that time, most states have passed laws that allow school districts to promulgate dress codes that prohibit clothing that is vulgar, obscene, or genuinely offensive. For instance, dress codes that prohibit clothing that depicts gang affiliation, racism, drug use, or sexual activity are generally considered allowable limitations to freedom of expression. Similarly, dress codes can legally prohibit clothing that exposes the midriff, shoulders, underwear or is otherwise too revealing. Clothing that supports a specific religious belief or political ideology falls into more of a gray zone. For example, a t-shirt that supports a specific political party may be prohibited if it causes genuine disruption. However, dress codes cannot be used to deter students from expressing their religious beliefs. Policies that prohibit students from wearing headscarves, turbans, yarmulkes, cross necklaces, tribal dress, rosaries, or non-U.S. flags could all potentially be challenged in court. Overall, schools have a right to create dress code policies that promote a safe, secure learning environment. However, students and parents who feel that their constitutional rights are being limited should consider consulting an