Aug. 16, 2004 — The Education Department has taken a new hold on its enforcement of dress code policies for the upcoming school year and the future, according to a release from Noreen Michael, commissioner of Education. "Various public schools throughout the territory have modified the current policy, established by the V.I. Board of Education, in an effort to create and secure an academic environment that is without unnecessary distractions and provides the preparation for students' transition to the work environment,"Michael said, adding, "Historically, PTOs (Parent Teacher Organizations), the Board and the Department of Education have collaborated with the development and enforcement of a standard dress code for all students."
Michael said that over time, some modifications had been made, "For example the implementation of the policy regarding students wearing limited jewelry to school was a major initiative."
Michaels said, "Each of the territory' s public schools have student handbooks that outline the specific guidelines regarding academic, disciplinary and dress code requirements,"adding, "Parents are also reminded that our policies are subject to change and without notice. Our primary concern is for the safety of all students and if a situation arises that will impact or comprise the school or the department' s ability to provide a safe and quality learning environment; we will make the necessary decisions and change policies."
The new modifications prohibit male students from wear oversized baggy pants. "Effective immediately male students throughout the St. Thomas-St. John District will no longer be
allowed to wear the oversized baggy pants that fall below the waist," William I. Frett , St.Thomas-St. John superintendent said in the release. "Pants must be worn
fitted to the waist and legs,"Frett said. "In addition to improving the appearance, this change in attire will invoke pride to the individual student and make concealing contraband and weapons more difficult."
In addition, at Ivanna Eudora Kean High School, the schools dress code was ratified by the PTSA during the 2003-2004 school year, resulting in the following changes:
For IEKHS female students, pants are no longer accepted as a part of the school uniform, nor are Peds or ankle socks.
For IEHKHS male students, oversized baggy pants are no longer accepted as part of the school uniform and pants must fall to the top of shoes or sneakers without being tucked into socks or, shoes or sneakers.
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