Student Dress Code Policy 

The Columbus County Schools Board believes that the dress and personal appearance of students greatly affect their academic performance and their interaction with other students.  We request that parents outfit their children in clothing that will be conducive to learning.  Generally, dress and grooming standards as determined by the student and her or his parents will be deemed acceptable.  However, it is REQUIRED that appearance and clothing comply with the following Board standards.

1. For sanitary and safety reasons and in accordance with State health regulations, all students are required to wear shoes/footwear to school. Specific footwear may be required for certain courses/classes. Slippers or bedroom shoes are prohibited. 
2. Dress for special school sponsored activities that occur outside the regular school day may be determined and regulated at the discretion of the principal.
3. Sunglasses, hats, hoods, and other headgear including kerchiefs, bandanas, and rags may not be worn inside
4. Jewelry and visible tattooing must not promote illegal drug, alcohol or tobacco use or be provocative, obscene or substantially disruptive. Jewelry cannot include any items that can be used as a weapon like spikes and chains attaching piercings.
5. Clothing which promotes illegal drug, alcohol or tobacco use or is provocative, obscene or substantially disruptive is prohibited (for information on gang-related attire, see policy 4328, Gang-Related Activity).
6. Clothing that is torn, cut, sliced or shredded from the neck to 4 inches above the knee is prohibited.
7. Garments for the lower body section must fall to at least four inches above the kneecap when the student is standing erect. These garments include dresses, skirts, shorts and any other appropriate apparel. These garments must fit snugly around the waist to eliminate sagging.
8. Garments for the upper body section must cover the upper torso.  These garments include shirts, blouses and any other appropriate apparel.  The bottom of any top must cover the waistband of the lower body garment so no skin is showing. Tank tops and sleeveless shirts must reach the edge of the shoulder and top of the arm. 
9. All undergarments must be covered at all times. 

Before receiving disciplinary consequences, a student who is not in compliance with this policy or a school dress code will be given a reasonable period of time to make adjustments so that he or she will be in compliance.  Disciplinary consequences for a student who fails to comply after being offered this opportunity shall be consistent with Section D of policy 4300, Student Behavior Policies.  The superintendent or designee shall list in the Code of Student Conduct the specific range of consequences that may be imposed on a student for violation of the dress code.

Adopted:  May 16, 2022