Published Tuesday, May 11, 1999 The idea does not call for a single, parochial school-type, uniform but a common style of clothing in selected colors -- possibly school colors, Hickory High Assistant Principal John Camuso explained Monday.
Included could be a few different styles of skirts and dress pants or khakis, so that students can have seven or eight different combinations of clothing to wear to school, he said.
The idea came from a 12-to-15-member committee made up of students, community members and administrators who met recently to consider the dress code. The group is expected to seek input from a broader base of parents and students during public forums and surveys this summer.
"These are general ideas. In July, we should have a better direction for parents," Camuso explained. "Hold off on the back-to-school shopping just yet."
The dress code has been on the school board's table for a while.
Last year, school directors adopted a more detailed dress code to toughen up safety in the five school buildings. The policy addressed the length of skirts and shorts and singled out baggy pants, ruling that trousers can't be worn so low that underwear is visible, walking is inhibited or the wearer could fall.
But the recent push for uniform-style dress came in response to incidents of school-related violence in the last year, Camuso said. "Parents and educators want to instill a pride in school and education with a little dressier appearance," he said.
If the uniform-style of clothing is adopted, Camuso said administrators may pursue it as optional at first and then make it mandatory to avoid possible litigation resulting from an infringement on students' rights. Stores would also have to be contacted to make sure the clothing is available, he said.
Some people at the meeting suggested the committee keep in mind the cost of the clothing for families with several children.
Camuso said the only sure thing is that committee wants to get public input before anything is finalized.
