PHS Dress Code

2011-2012

An important goal of a dress code is to teach young people that in the larger arena of life, different types of dress are appropriate for different settings. To that end, students at Pisgah High School are expected to be clean and neat in their personal appearance, observing standards of modesty, moderation, and good taste.  “Modesty in dress” at Pisgah High School requires that students refrain from wearing such items as excessively tight-fitting and revealing clothing, and from displaying visible cleavage, visible underwear, bare midriffs, etc.  Attire that is distracting or extreme is also prohibited.  Since the parent is the primary educator of the student, it is the parent’s responsibility to ensure that the student is following the dress code on a daily basis while on campus and at school functions.

The school reserves the right to prohibit fads or fashions that are disruptive or reflect negatively on the school and/or person.  Interpretation and judgment in matters pertaining to dress and personal appearance are obviously necessary. The administrative team will make the final determination regarding dress code violations.

The dress code is not intended to be restrictive or unreasonable. The intent of the dress code is to make Pisgah High School a place where students can be educated in a safe and caring environment. We believe students can dress like teenagers without being disruptive, offensive or disrespectful of others. Pisgah High students are expected to dress appropriately at school functions. The school’s administration reserves the right to address inappropriate dress at school sponsored activities.

The following norms govern student dress and personal appearance at Pisgah High School and all Pisgah High events:

• Clothing displaying language or symbols related to tobacco, drugs and alcohol are not permitted.  Clothing displaying language or symbols of an offensive nature (sexist, obscene, racial, or sexually suggestive), violent expressions or images (including those connected to entertainment) are not permitted. 
• Backpacks, books, notebook(s), caps, hats, etc., must be free of inappropriate patches, (pins,) drawings, and writings.

Caps and Hats

• Caps and hats are not allowed inside classrooms, the Media Center, Main Office, Cafeteria, Guidance Office or Auditorium. E Building teachers have the discretion to allow caps and hats in the shop and classroom areas.
• Sweatshirt hoods being worn inside are prohibited. Exceptions for PE and other class activities that are outside
• Bandannas and kerchiefs are prohibited. (Exceptions to this will be made for religious or medical purposes).

Coats

• Trench coats are not permitted.

Dresses, Skirts, Shirts and Blouses——the following are not permitted:

• Straps on tops that are less than the width of a standard Credit card (2 inches)
• Tube and halter tops even when covered by a sweater or jacket
• Necklines of shirts, blouses and dresses extending lower than the length of a standard credit card (3 3/8 inch) from the collarbone.
• All tops should extend below the waist at all times. Cut out sleeves that expose the arm pit are only allowed in physical education classes.
• Dresses & skirts (and their slits) and shorts that do not stay at least 6 ¾” from the top of knee.  ( 2 credit card lengths)
• Tight-fitting, spandex, or other form-hugging materials (Jeggings) 
• Transparent materials

Hair

• Hair must not cover the face and eyes which distracts from learning as well as normal interaction and eye contact with classmates and adults. (Keep it pulled back so normal eye to eye contact can be made).

Clothing Accessories – the following are not permitted.

• Hanging wallet/key chains or chain belts, large chains worn around the neck or wrist, chains with padlocks, and pointed-stud bands.

Pants——the following are not permitted:

• Holes or rips in pants or shorts that do not stay at or below 6 ¾" (2 credit card lengths) from knee.  Undergarments must not be visible. If patched, then the patch must be on the outside of the garment as not to be confused with undergarments.
• Swim suits and beach attire.
• Shorts that do not stay at 6 ¾" (2 credit card lengths) from knee. 
• Tight-fitting, spandex, or other form-hugging materials worn alone
• Oversized (including leg width or length) and excessively baggy or sagging pants (pant waist/belt must be worn at the natural waist).
• Pajama bottoms or tops or bathrobes, etc.
• Rolled-down waistband.

Shoes or Sandals——Must be worn at all times.  The following are not permitted:

• Slippers or bedroom shoes (unless for temporary medical conditions).
• “Heelies” (shoes with retractable wheels).

Sunglasses——May not be worn inside of any building on campus unless medically necessary.