| The School Board of Polk County |
| Bylaws & Policies |
| Unless a specific policy has been amended and the date the policy was revised is noted at the bottom of that policy, the bylaws and policies of The School Board of Polk County were adopted on November 12, 2013 and were in effect beginning November 12, 2013. |
5511 - DRESS AND GROOMING
The School Board recognizes that each student's mode of dress and grooming is a manifestation of personal style and individual preference. The Board will not interfere with the right of students and their parents to make decisions regarding their appearance, except when their choices interfere with the educational program of the schools. The Board authorizes the Superintendent to establish a general dress code and a school uniform for students in kindergarten through 8th grade in order to promote a safe and healthy school setting and enhance the educational environment. The Board further authorizes the Superintendent to develop for Board approval a dress code, which may include uniforms, for grades 9-12. The general dress code
and school uniform shall be incorporated into the Code of Student Conduct.Accordingly, the Superintendent shall establish such grooming procedures as are necessary to promote discipline, maintain order, secure the safety of students, and provide a healthy environment conducive to academic purposes. Such procedures shall prohibit student dress or grooming practices which:
| A. | present a hazard to the health or safety of the student himself/herself or to others in the school; | |
| B. | materially interfere with school work, create disorder, or disrupt the educational program; | |
| C. | cause excessive wear or damage to school property; | |
| D. | prevent the student from achieving his/her own educational objectives. |
Such procedures shall establish the dress requirements for members of the athletic teams, bands, and other school groups when representing the District at a public event.
The Superintendent shall develop administrative procedures to implement this policy which designates the principal as the arbiter of student dress and grooming in his/her building.
F.S. 1001.43, 1006.07
Technical Change 9/9/16
© Neola 2016