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Hernando Today

Dress Policy Changes Pass Without Uniform Code

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By LINNEA BROWN

Published: June 8, 2008

BROOKSVILLE - Local parents may not want to go back-to-school shopping before July 29.

That's the date when school board members will vote on the district's new unified dress policy, a highly-charged issue when it was initially discussed at an April workshop.

Tuesday, board members approved changes to the 2008-09 code of conduct, but asked that the attached "uniform code" document be removed and set aside until July.

"Board (members) said they're not ready to vote on this because they wanted more time to review it and hear from parents," said student services director Jim Knight.

During an April workshop, board members voiced general approval for a proposed districtwide "uniform code" for the 2008-09 school year, which will require students at the majority of the district's schools to adhere to general guidelines such as neutral solid-color pants, shirts or shorts and polo-style shirts.

While the issue must still pass an official vote, the move marks the first time some of Hernando County's schools have implemented specific dress guidelines.

Those that already have board-approved "uniform codes" include Brooksville, Chocachatti, Moton, Pine Grove, Spring Hill and Suncoast elementary schools, the elementary grades at Challenger K-8 School of Science and Mathematics, and Parrott Middle School.

Those with uniform codes seeking approval are the middle school grades at Challenger, all grades at Explorer K-8 and J.D. Floyd K-8, Deltona, Eastside and Westside elementary schools and Fox Chapel, Parrott and West Hernando middle schools, all of which currently do not require strict dress guidelines.

Springstead High School also has a pilot uniform code in the works. It includes jeans and polo shirts.

For the most part, the dress guidelines require solid-color slacks, skirts, Capri (pants) or shorts, with solid-color collared shirts.

However, rules vary by school, with some schools requiring specific colors. Each code has been previously approved by each school's SAC committee.

Board member Diane Bonfield said Friday that she supports the dress code, but said she is against specifying color of polo shirt.

"I do wish all schools would allow solid color of polo shirt," she said. "It's definitely more difficult to shop when you're looking for specific colors, and that would make it (easier) for children who are switching schools."

The proposals have created controversy between parents. Supporters say a more uniform code would help eliminate distractions and keep the focus on academics, while opponents have voiced concern about cost and inhibiting individualism.

Reporter Linnea Brown can be reached at 352-544-5289 or lbrown@hernandotoday.com.

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