Handbook

Dress Code

Catholic Schools are ‘Places of Welcome’ where God can be encountered. We strive to create conditions where everyone feels valued, safe, and has a sense of belonging. The intent of developing dress guidelines is to support a respectful and safe environment; it is not meant to be prescriptive or punitive. 

Teaching dignity and respect to children and adolescents means awakening in them respect for the human person. Therefore, it is important that dress guidelines be consistent with the inner character qualities that we endeavor to nurture within our students. 

We recognize that decisions about dress reflect individual expression, socio-cultural norms, and economic factors, and that they are personal and important elements of a person’s well-being. Students have the right to express themselves, feel comfortable and have the freedom to make dress choices. Students have the responsibility to make dress choices that ensure dignity and respect for themselves and for others.

Student Dress Guidelines are to be communicated annually to the school community. 

Certain requirements for student dress may be outlined for safety purposes or specialized activities. Examples of such activities include field trips, play days,  art activities and Physical Education. 

Criteria to be used in discussing Student Dress Guidelines include dignity and respect for all, age of the students, ability to identify students (i.e., any coverings that obscure the face), and safety considerations. 

• We believe that we can rely on the good judgment of parents and caregivers to determine the clothing children should wear to school.
 • We know that how we dress affects our attitude and behavior. Students and staff are encouraged to dress for success in their roles as learners and professionals in a Catholic education setting.
 • Weather, activity, age, and many different variables cause great variation in what can be deemed reasonable and respectful.
 • Clothing with vulgar language or themes of racism, sexism, drug, alcohol, and tobacco will not be allowed.