An El Paso school has introduced a new dress code for the school year, banning students from wearing head-to-toe black clothing — because the look, they say, is “linked to depression and mental health issues.”
Charles High School Principal Nick DeSantis sent a letter to parents this year explaining the new uniform dress code, according to KFOX14.
“We are … eliminating the image that has taken over the campus of students wearing black shirts with black bottoms, which has become more associated with depression and mental health issues and/or crime than with happy and healthy kids ready to learn,” the letter read. .
“What they don’t allow students to wear is black from top to bottom,” Norma De La Rosa, president of the El Paso Teachers Association, told CBSTexas. “I can wear black shorts to gym. And I can wear it on casual dress day, but I just can’t wear it top down.
But he admits it’s a tricky question. “Colors aren’t really about preventing or stopping mental health issues,” she told the business paper. “You can have the most colorful dress on and still suffer from depression.”
Charles Middle School in El Paso.
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PEOPLE has reached out to Charles Middle School and the El Paso Independent School District for a statement.
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The El Paso Independent School District, which created the policy, told KFOX14 that the purpose of the uniform policy change is to “enhance student well-being and sense of pride.” This decision, carefully considered and approved by the Campus Improvement Team — made up of parents, faculty, staff and community stakeholders — aims to encourage positive self-image among students and more effectively display the school’s colors and pride.”
“The dress code changes were in response to concerns and recommendations raised by Charles High School stakeholders. The school appreciates the community’s feedback and cooperation in making these changes.”
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“Please remember that student safety is our number one priority, so any time a concern is raised about student safety, it’s important that we take it seriously,” El Paso Independent School District Executive Director Sarah Venegas told KVIA7.
She added that the school has also removed black pants from the list of permitted clothing, and only khaki pants or jeans are allowed.
“Wearing a uniform is part of the school rules, on every campus,” she told the outlet. “If they violate the uniform, it can be a disciplinary offense, but it’s up to each administrator.”
But as one parent, Stephanie Rascon, told the outlet, “I don’t think we should group and red-label kids who just like to wear black.”
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Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education