Pomperaug Elementary School

A student's appearance can have a direct impact on behavior and academic achievement. The Board of Education and the Administration encourage students to dress in a manner that reflects pride in and respect for themselves, their schoo, and their community. In addition, poor hygiene can be a distraction and can be a health hazard to the individual student and to the rest of the class. Parents are encouraged to play a strong role in deciding how children will dress and in ensuring that they are neat and clean whenever they come to school.

Restrictions on student appearance may be applied whenever the dress or grooming:

1. Interferes with the learning process
2. Is disruptive
3. Is unsafe
4. Is contrary to law

To promote a positive, safe, and non-disruptive learning environment, proper attire must be worn. Therefore, students are prohibited from wearing clothing or other items that interfere with the learning process, are disruptive, are unsafe, or that are contrary to law. Without limitation, the following are examples of attire that may not be worn in the Region 15 Public Schools during the academic school day or at school activities:

• Attire or accessories that set out disruptive, obscene writing, or pictures;
• Attire or accessories that depect logos or emblems that encourage the use of drugs, tobacco products, or alcoholic beverages;
• Clothing that is overly revealing, considering the age and sex of the students;
• Other attire or accessories that depict vulgar, illegal, racial, sexist, or other discriminatory viewpoints that could contribute to a hostile learning environment for students;
• All head coverings that prevent the easy identification of students and those types specified in the school handbooks. Headwear for bona fide religious reasons may be worn;
• Footwear, including black-soled shoes, that damage floors or are a safety hazard;
• Sunglasses (unless required by a doctor's order).

Please refer to the Board of Education policy.