Dress Code changes in store for MISD students

Marlin ISD has released a new dress code for the 2020-2021 school year. 

In years past, Marlin Elementary and Marlin Junior Academy students were required to observe standardized dress, but now, they follow suit with Marlin High School with a more relaxed guideline system. 

According to their website, standardized dress, complete with khakis and polo-style shirts, is still acceptable and encouraged.

“We honor a relaxed dress code adhering to common practices of modesty and neatness, while dressing in a respectful manner as to contribute to the academic atmosphere, not detract from it,” the policy reads. 

This includes restrictions on visual/graphic content, hemline length, and types of clothing worn, along with a slew of other specific requirements.

 “The district’s dress code policy is established to promote scholarly appearance, prevent disruption, and minimize safety hazards,” it continues.

Hemlines must not be higher than five inches above the knee, to be measured using a 3x5 index card. This extends to shorts, dresses, skirts, skorts, and to tops worn with leggings, jeggings, or tights. Clothing must not have holes above that threshold as well. 

Graphics and/or typography that may be considered lewd, vulgar, or obscene is prohibited. More specifically, content cannot endorse tobacco products, alcohol, drugs, or sexual activity. 

Sleeveless shirts are allowed, but must have at least two inches across the shoulder and should not be cut off. Spaghetti straps, tank tops, halter tops, or strapless tops are prohibited. Shirts should not allow undergarments to be seen.

No undergarments should be visible, but should be worn by everyone to prevent exposure of the body. Clothing that is low cut, either in the front or back, is prohibited as well as clothing that shows off the midriff.

Certain restricted items will be taken from students found in possession of them and will be given back in time. Hats, caps, and bandanas will be taken until the end of the school day, unless a parent picks them up. Skateboards, which are prohibited on district property at all times, will be taken until the end of the school year, unless picked up by parents. 

Other restricted items:

• Shower shoes, bedtime slippers, shoes with wheels, cleats, or water socks
• Piercings such rings, studs, strings, or jewelry that imitates body piercings other than in the ears of students.
• Pockets chains or noisy, distracting, and/or excessive jewelry
• Pajama pants or tops
• Belts of excessive length
• Trench coats or dusters
• Fingerless gloves/arm socks

District administrators will hold final say on whether a specific situation violates the policy in place with understanding that every situation is unique. 

“Exceptions based on religious beliefs will be reviewed and granted on case by case basis,” the guidelines state.

Students will be given an opportunity to correct the infraction while at school, but may receive an in-school suspension if it is not corrected. Typically this would be for the remainder of the school day or until a parent or guardian brings an acceptable change of clothes. Repetitive offenses may result in additional discipline. 

Contact administration to request exceptions based on religious or strong philosophical beliefs. More information on Marlin ISD can be found at marlinisd.org.