A message to Parents and Guardians;
Last week I spoke to the students and staff
about some points of emphasis I identified as needing some attention. All of
the topics discussed were in the handbook already. I simply clarified how I was
going to enforce the current language and stated that I was going to become
less lenient. I was being proactive and felt that was the best way to explain
my expectations. The examples I used came from Pride of Iowa Conference Schools
and other school handbooks.
When thinking about making changes, I always
use the analogy of what do I want visitors to our building to see and hear, and
the feelings they take away from the visit. Thinking about that analogy, I felt
uncomfortable and believe things needed to be tightened up. I could have waited
until next year but after some serious consideration, I decided not to wait.
I will use common sense when enforcing the
dress code policy. I will also side on being more strict than lenient. I feel I
have been lenient, but was not getting the desired results. Dress codes are
very difficult to define. I will do my best and I will always be honest with
students and parents about my expectations. I will not spend much time with
students who are going to test or push the boundaries with these policy
clarifications. They will either change their clothes or be sent home. When
speaking about appropriate dress, I think this statement clarifies the
question: IF YOU THINK
THAT THERE MIGHT BE SOME QUESTION ABOUT WHAT YOU WEAR BEING INAPPROPRIATE, DO
NOT WEAR IT.
As educators, maybe the most important
lesson we can teach students deals with citizenship. As citizens we will always
have rules to follow. They may change depending on whether it is federal, state
or local. We have rules for the workplace and there are rules for school.
Sometimes we may agree or disagree but there is a process to follow when we
disagree. Choosing to break a rule then argue with the consequence is not the
lesson we should be teaching our students.
I hope I have your support as we work to
prepare our students for post-high school and to be great citizens.
Points
of Emphasis Summary
This is what was explained to the students
and staff.
The points of emphasis are;
Tardiness -
Explained the current handbook language and
explained that it will be enforced as written.
Public display of affection
-
Defined as holding hands, kissing, hugging,
sitting or standing extremely close to one another, or provocative touching. These
rules apply to the school grounds and activities.
Dress Code -
Shorts/skirts may be worn only if they are
roughly mid-thigh length or longer and not too revealing. Spandex is not
considered appropriate for outerwear because of being too tight. Any clothing
containing shoulder straps will need to have a minimum of two inches of width
and not too revealing to be considered appropriate. Tube tops, tank tops and
halter-tops must be covered by another shirt. No hats, caps, sweatshirt hoods
and sunglasses can be worn during the school hours which is defined as the
warning bell to the end of school bell. Wearing pants or shorts with holes or
tears above the knees and are too revealing are not allowed. Clothing that is
too tight is inappropriate for school. Shirts must be long enough to meet the
beltline. No undergarments can be visible. No shirts with double meanings. Mesh
or see through shirts that are too revealing are not allowed.
Profanity - number one priority.
Teachers will address the language with the
student and send me an email stating you spoke to a student. I will then record
it. Multiple offenses will lead to detentions.
Detentions
They will be tightened up and current language enforced. This
may involve loss of extra-curricular participation if not served within the
first 48 hours.
Detention
Guidelines
Visiting
or talking to other students, sleeping, having food or drinks while assigned a
detention is not permitted. Students are to bring work to do or bring something
to read. Cell phones can only be used with permission. Computers can be used
for educational purposes only and with permission. Failure to comply with the
rules or supervisor will result in another detention.
