Dress code in New York schools: what immigrants need to know

Some schools are being strict about what their students wear. In July, the New York City Council approved a bill to create a more uniform dress code for students, reports Fox5.

Currently, school principals have the ability to develop and enforce their own dress code policies. This results in different rules for students depending on their school.

Since some government schools allowed to adopt individual dress code policies at their own discretion, some board members argue that this is unfair and discriminatory towards LGBTQ+ and students of color.

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“We need to make sure that all young people feel seen and heard in this process,” said Councilwoman Althea Stevens.

She tabled the bill for debate. Stevens said the bill was vital to protecting young people. It allowed them to feel safe and accepted within the walls of their community. school.

However, New York City public schools have published their own rules regarding dress code.

What to wear

Here's what the student dress code allows.

Students may wear head coverings for religious observance or if it is related to a disability. Scarves, headbands and other hair accessories are also allowed for short or long hair, curls, braids and ringlets.

“Dress codes must be applied equally and without discrimination,” New York City Public Schools said. “We must ensure that all staff, students, and parents are informed in writing of the dress code, students’ rights regarding their attire, and the consequences for students wearing clothing that violates the dress code.”

What not to wear

Schools cannot ban "distracting" clothing or certain types of clothing that are stereotypically associated with one gender.

Here are a few examples:

• prohibit students who identify as male from wearing skirts, jewelry, or nail polish;
• only students who identify as male may wear ties for their yearbook photographs;
• only students who identify as women may wear prom dresses.

Students may not wear clothing in school that discriminates on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, religious practices, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship/immigration status, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, or weight. Clothing that contains profanity, obscenity, nudity, sexual activity, threats of violence, injury, harm, or gang affiliation is not permitted.

What does the bill on a uniform dress code solve?

The bill that was voted on specifically addresses school uniform policies. It takes into account different cultures, gender expression, and body types.

The City Council must now work with the Department of Education to find out exactly what the new rules are and when they will take effect.

Dress code violations

1. The school must inform the student and his parents about the importance of adhering to the dress code.
2. The school will advise the student and parents to discuss options for adhering to the dress code.
3. Schools may prohibit students from wearing clothing inside out and ask them to change their clothes before the end of the school day.
4. The school may offer students clean alternative clothing if the school has one.