DRESS CODE

In an effort to provide a safe and orderly environment for our students and, in response to a desire to keep our school free from threats or harmful influence of any gangs or groups which advocate substance use, violence or disruptive behavior, Ladera Vista has adopted the Basic Dress Code and Prohibited Items list as a guide to parents and students. This list is not meant to infringe on any individual student’s rights to freedom of expression, but rather to encourage students to “dress for success” and come to school properly prepared to participate in the educational process.

Basic Dress Code

The Basic Dress Code applies to all school activities on or off campus, before, during, and after school. It is the policy of Ladera Vista Junior High to encourage types of conduct, habits of dress and attitudes which promote the general acceptance of pupils by their associates and facilitate the learning process. School personnel will encourage students to wear clothing in a manner that does not offend the rules of decency or attract undue attention at school, and which promotes habits of good grooming. Remember, students are here to learn. In the final analysis, the principal’s evaluation shall prevail.

1. Clothing or possessions (backpacks) that advertise or promote the illegal or commercial use of drugs, alcohol, tobacco/nicotine products, violence, gambling, including graffiti, symbols or double meanings or that include sexual innuendoes are prohibited.

2. Clothing or possessions that contain obscene words or words that are considered prejudicial toward any ethnic or religious group are prohibited.

3. Attire that is worn in such a way as to identify students with negative youth groups or gangs is not allowed. This includes, but is not limited to, oversized clothing, unhemmed pants and shorts, rips and holes, sagging pants, cutoff shorts with socks reaching the short line, hanging belts & chains, oversize buckles, suspenders off the shoulders and initials on belt buckles.

4. Clothing must cover the front and back of the student to the waist when arms are raised. Underwear must not be exposed. No bare midriff, halter, off the shoulder, tank or spaghetti strap tops are allowed. Sleeveless shirts must have a two inch minimum width. Pajamas are not appropriate for daily wear.

5. Special clothing may be approved for Spirit Day activities such as Sports Days, holidays and pajama days. These items are for that activity only and must meet all regular school dress code requirements.

6. With regard to holey/distress clothing, a student/administration committee established the following: a) with hands at your sides, holes may appear anywhere below your fingers; b) distress can be anywhere with no skin showing; c) shorts and skirts must follow above criteria-below finger tips.

7. Adequate footwear must be worn for safety reasons. “Flip flops” and slippers do not provide adequate foot protection.

8. Students may wear approved hats only while outside. These hats must be full brimmed, providing protection for face, ears, and neck. Hats must also meet all other dress code policy requirements. Baseball caps and hats with logos and sweatshirt hoods are not allowed.

9. Notebooks and other belongings are to be clean of graffiti.

10. Items that are a safety hazard to the wearer or others, such as metal studs, chains, wallet chains, steel toe shoes or dangling items such as oversize dangling earrings, are not allowed.