The philosophy of the KRSD Secondary Standard of Dress promotes a respectful, safe and creative environment for all students. Students are encouraged to wear clothing of their choice that is comfortable. Student attire should facilitate participation in learning as well as the health and safety of students and the adults that supervise them. All students are treated equitably regardless of gender/gender identification, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, body type/size, religion, and/or personal style. This standard, as outlined below, is to provide guidance for students, staff, and parents.

A school is a learning and professional environment. While socialization and individual expression are important, safety (physically, socially, and emotionally) and learning are our priorities. Just as there is an appropriate standard of dress if you work in a trade, at a hospital, or a supermarket, there is a standard of dress that is appropriate for a school environment.

Minimum Requirements:

1. Students must wear standard articles of clothing to include tops and bottoms, or their equivalent one piece option as well as footwear.

2. Clothing must cover areas from one armpit across to the other armpit, down to approximately 2 to 3 inches in length from the top of the upper thighs. Tops must have shoulder straps or sleeves. Rips or tears in clothing must be outside the areas required to be covered.

3. Shoes must be worn at all times and should be safe for the school environment.

4. Clothing that covers undergarments must be opaque and undergarments may not be worn as outerwear.

5. Headwear may be worn provided it does not interfere with learning or interpersonal communication.

6. Sunglasses may not be worn inside the building unless directed by a medical professional and coordinated through the school nurse or administration.

7. Specialized courses and/or activities may require specialized attire, such as sports uniforms or safety gear.

Additional Requirements:

1. Clothing may not depict, display, imply, advertise, or advocate illegal, violent, vulgar, obscene, or lewd conduct, weapons, or the use of alcohol, nicotine, marijuana or other controlled substances.

2. Clothing may not state, imply, display, or depict speech/imagery targeting or discriminating against groups based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation, or any other protected classification.

3. Clothing and accessories that endanger student or staff safety may not be worn.

4. Apparel, jewelry, accessories, tattoos, or manner of grooming that, by virtue of its color, arrangement, trademark or any other attribute, denotes membership in a gang that advocates illegal or disruptive behavior is prohibited.

Concerns or violations of the Standard of Dress will be handled discretely and according to the Code of Conduct. The administration at each school reserves the right to determine what constitutes appropriate dress. Students who do not adhere to these guidelines will be required to correct the violation prior to returning to class. Parents will be called if appropriate clothing is not available or the student refuses appropriate clothing.

The 2022-23 KRSD Secondary Standard of Dress was updated from the 2021-22 version after receiving feedback from students, staff, and community members. The current Standard of Dress uses research based upon modern dress codes and most specifically language from the Roanoke County School District Dress Code, Roanoke, Virginia.