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R-JENERATION Story Index Cheerleader uniforms often break dress code rules that require skirts to reach the fingertips. Photo by Samantha Clemens/R-Jeneration

Sunday, April 01, 2001
Copyright © Las Vegas Review-Journal

R-Jeneration:Dress codes don't always apply to all students

What do a couple of extra inches mean to a high school student? A lot more than you'd think, considering the consequences of violating the school dress-code policy.

It seems simple enough; the rules are laid out. As long as these guidelines are obeyed, there shouldn't be a problem concerning school dress code. However, many students choose to disregard these rules. As a result, students suffer repercussions, such as receiving a notice for a required parent conference -- known as an RPC -- or in-house suspension.

Conflicts can arise, though, when the effects of breaking the rules contradict the very purpose of having a dress code. The dress code and appearance section of the school guidelines, in accordance with Clark County School District Regulation 5131, states, "Student dress, personal appearance, and conduct are required to be of such character as not to disrupt or detract from the educational environment of the school."

But disruption happens when a student breaks the dress code.

"It's stupid," says Green Valley High School senior Patty Doyle, "because you miss a whole period running home to change." Keeping students from class can seem hypocritical with regard to the dress code's emphasis "not to disrupt or detract from the educational environment."

Another popular argument against the dress code involves cheerleading uniforms being in conflict with regulations. Many students, such as Green Valley junior Emily Scott, believe that cheerleaders should comply with the dress code like the rest of the student body.

"It irritates me to no end that there are exceptions to rules," she said. "Rules are (supposed to be) for everyone."

Centennial High School senior Lia Howe agrees.

"I think it's unfair that cheerleaders get to wear their cheer outfits during school, when the whole reason why we have a dress code is to prevent distractions in the learning atmosphere," she said.

Green Valley junior Jennifer Coleman agrees that the tolerance of dress-code violations for cheerleading is a double standard.

"All students should be held to the same educational and disciplinary regulations," she said.

However, as in every sport or other activity, there are certain advantages to being a cheerleader. Green Valley varsity cheerleader Amy Sandberg clarifies the reason why uniforms break dress-code rules.

"Cheer skirts are designed short, so we can kick and build," she said. "If they met dress-code regulation, we wouldn't be able to move around as much."

The main problem students find with cheer uniforms is that they are supposed to be worn during games, not in school.

"Uniforms that break school regulations should only be worn in their intended arena, not as clothing during the school day," Coleman said.

Some students find benefits in having a school dress code. Silverado High School senior Lindsay Reiter said, "it's a good idea so people don't come to school naked, but dressing is a way of self-expression and shouldn't be hindered."

Despite the many gripes about the current dress code and the inevitable dress-code rebels, the rules for school attire will remain unchanged. There always will be individuals fighting the dress code, those breaking it for the sake of having their own way and those inspired by the hope of playing a role in amending the dress code.

But administrators continue to advocate the regulations, saying that the rules accomplish their purpose.

"The reason we have a school dress code is to keep the focus on academics," says Larry Shaps, dean of students at Bonanza High School. "It is effective as long as it's enforced."

The best that students can do is fight for their beliefs in a rational manner. Besides, there must be some standard to keep order in school, even if it's as flawed as many feel the the dress code is.

It won't hurt to wear shirts with sleeves for another three months. Instead of sporting mini-skirts this spring semester, try a longer, stylish skirt or a summer dress. Whether impressing your classmates has greater importance than education is your decision. The consequence is known, but the choice is up to you.

The simple solution is to follow the rules. If the dress code requires that sleeveless shirts be at least 3 inches wide, why risk getting in trouble because of a couple of inches?