The dress code divide

Photo by Zata Dizadare

By Naomi Akinlami

The student dress code contains regulations for both male and female students with restrictions ranging from no facial piercings to no ripped jeans and hats.

“A majority of our dress code violations are from the girls,” Associate Principal of Instruction Bryan Brown said, confirming the regulation’s preference for male students.

Student opinion on the dress code is divided but general opinion is that it heavily focuses on female students.

“I would say it’s fair...boys can’t really sag, they can’t really wear piercings or earrings...I would say most of it is the girls.” said Senior Mianna Ramirez.

While some students believe it’s fair citing some foul play others disagree.

“I think it’s crackerjacks, instead of telling people what to wear, teach boys not to look at us that way...although people shouldn’t be coming to school naked.” said Senior Zainab Shodeke

With student opinion differing, it’s not a surprise administrator opinion differs as well making it difficult to determine who breaks the dress code more often and whether or not your breaking the dress code is based on the administration’s interpretation.

“It’s pretty even, for girls it’s shirts, and for boys it’s hats and both genders are ripped jeans,” said Assistant Principal Brian Light.

Just as student opinion differs, so does administrator opinion.

When considering the dress code it is important to note that all the rules were created for students to follow.

“I agree with some students about the dress code for the most part but not all of it,” Assistant Principal Shannon Wesley said.

The dress code is important as it defines what is acceptable and unacceptable at school but it is also disagreeable depending on the individual interpreting it.

The reality is, the student dress code exists and it contains regulations for both male and female students. Public opinion on the dress code might differ but the dress code is a part of student life everywhere.