Purpose
Smithfield Public Schools recognizes the importance of student self-expression and identity, while maintaining a safe, respectful, and distraction-free environment for learning. This policy sets clear and equitable expectations for student attire without disproportionately impacting any group. It is designed to prioritize safety, promote inclusivity, and reduce unnecessary disciplinary interactions between staff and students.
Core Principles
The responsibility for student dress rests with the student and their parent/guardian. Dress codes should not marginalize based on race, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, cultural observance, household income, or body type/size.
Enforcement should be respectful, discreet, and designed to preserve rapport between students and staff.
All dress code issues should be treated as opportunities for learning, not discipline.
Teachers are encouraged to focus on instruction; enforcement should primarily be
handled by designated administrators or staff.
Minimum Clothing Requirements (applies to all students)
Students must wear clothing that meets the following criteria:
Tops must not be strapless, cover the torso, go to the belly button or lower, and not have undergarments visible.
Bottoms must cover the lower torso and upper thighs (e.g., pants, shorts, skirts).
Shoes must be worn at all times. Activity-specific footwear may be required (e.g., PE or lab safety). At the elementary level, shoes must be closed-toe and have a strap.
Dresses must meet the criteria for tops and bottoms
Students Cannot Wear:
Any clothing or accessories that contain discriminatory, obscene, drug/alcohol-related, lewd, or violent messages
Clothing or accessories that depict or promote violence, drugs, alcohol, vaping, hate speech, or pornography
Items that contain language or imagery that targets or intimidates individuals or groups
Weapons or facsimile items
Clothing or accessories that pose a safety risk
Items that obscure the face (except for religious reasons or as personal protective equipment)
Undergarments that are exposed
Sports bras as tops
Hats and Headwear
To maintain a respectful and distraction-free learning environment, students are not permitted to wear hats, hoods, or other head coverings inside school buildings during the instructional day.
Exceptions will be granted for:
Religious observance (e.g., hijabs, yarmulkes, turbans),
Medical necessity (e.g., coverings due to hair loss, surgery, or conditions),
School-sponsored spirit days or approved special events.
Hooded sweatshirts may be worn, but hoods must remain down while inside school buildings.
Enforcement Protocol:
Enforcement of the dress code rests with the building administration and staff.
If a student’s attire does not meet guidelines:
1. A staff member or administrator will privately and respectfully inform the student of the concern.
2. The student will be given three options:
- Change into their own clothes (if available).
- Borrow school-provided clothing.
- Request a parent/guardian to bring a change of clothes.
Conclusion
This policy aims to reflect modern student needs and social awareness while reinforcing the values of safety, inclusivity, and mutual respect. A safe and expressive environment strengthens learning, community trust, and student-staff relationships.
ADOPTED: December 4, 2017
REVISED: August 30, 2021, August 21, 2025