Email Template
Copy/Paste
Subject: Revise the School Dress Code
Dear [School Board Name],
My name is [Name]. As students in [School District Name], we are submitting this to revise our school's current dress code policies. We believe that it is crucial for [School District name] to have a dress code that promotes inclusivity, personal expression, and a healthy body image, and that does not unduly burden female students.
We request your attention and consideration in addressing the following points:
Gender Neutrality: Our dress code should be unbiased and inclusive, and should not be written in a way that unfairly targets girls’ clothing. It is essential to eliminate any gender-specific language and restrictions in the dress code, because we have seen that girls are overwhelmingly the target for dress-code violations and getting sent home.
Body Positivity: The current dress code places a disproportionate focus on modesty, which can lead to body shaming. It also sends the wrong message that girls’ bodies are distracting and it is girls’ responsibility to prevent boys from looking at them.
Practicality and Comfort: The dress code should prioritize practicality and comfort to ensure that students can fully engage in their academic pursuits without unnecessary distractions. By allowing more flexibility in clothing choices, students can focus on their studies and extracurricular activities.
Clear Guidelines: A well-defined and unambiguous dress code is essential to ensure fairness and consistency across all students. It is crucial to provide clear guidelines that outline acceptable and unacceptable attire, so students and teachers both know a violation when they see one.
Dialogue and Student Involvement: We would like to have a positive dialogue with the board about these issues, and come to a collaborative result. By involving students in the decision-making process, you allow us to take ownership of our education and develop valuable skills in negotiation, collaboration, and critical thinking.
A copy of our proposed dress code is attached. We are respectfully requesting a meeting to discuss the matter with any members of the school board who can help us. We feel strongly that a collaborative process that takes into account both students’ and school board members’ priorities will lead to the best result.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. We look forward to your response and to witnessing the positive impact that a revised dress code will have on our school community.
Talk soon,
[Your Name]
“Students may wear clothing that is comfortable for them, expresses their self-identity and adheres to their religious beliefs while meeting the values of equity and respect for all students. Clothing is defined as items worn on the body, on top of undergarments. For safety reasons, attire such as hats and hoodies may be worn as long as the student’s face is visible. What [school district] defines as unacceptable includes clothing that does not cover the buttocks, genitals, or nipples, underwear worn without any clothes covering (visible waistband or straps on undergarments worn under other clothes are acceptable) swimwear as standalone apparel (outside of pool areas), and clothing with language or images that are vulgar, discriminatory, derogatory, or obscene. In addition, clothing that promotes the use of weapons, illegal acts or violence, drugs, alcohol/drug paraphernalia, or gang involvement may not be worn to school. Any student not complying with any of these standards will be asked to correct their dress immediately. The student’s parent/guardian will be contacted, and the student will need to change into clothing in compliance with [school district’s] framework.”
