3224: Student Dress

Student dress will only be regulated when, in the judgment of school administrators, there is a reasonable expectation that:

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

The superintendent will establish procedures providing guidance to students, parents, and staff regarding appropriate student dress in school or while engaging in extracurricular activities. Such procedures will 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 will be asked, with notice to his or her parents, to make appropriate corrections and be subject to discipline if the corrections are not undertaken.

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Cross References

• Board Policy 3220 Freedom of Expression

Legal References

• RCW 28A.320.140 Schools with Special standards – Dress codes
• WAC 392-400-215 Student Rights
• WAC 392-400-225 School district rules defining misconduct – Distribution of Rules