In 2023, West welcomed its newest principal, Gary Henderson, who worked at Tracy High School for over twenty-five years. One of the changes Henderson implemented was stricter enforcement of the dress code. Ideally, this practice prevents distractions, thereby fostering a more efficient learning environment. Regardless, some students feel that the dress code is causing more harm than good as it limits their self-expression. To gain more insight, Principal Henderson and several students shared their perspectives surrounding dress code policies at West High.

Many students have experienced run-ins with faculty who instruct them to pull up their pants or pull down their shirts, though some staff members also express remarks that can make students uncomfortable. During our interview, senior Medha Boddugari described her most recent instance of getting dress-coded. While walking on campus, a staff member advised her to pull her shirt down as “this is not a club scene.” Aside from the initial shock, Medha had no problem being dress-coded; however, she found the comment unnecessary. Embarrassing students into following policy may not be an effective strategy as it could instead cause them to harbor resentment towards the rules intended to keep them safe. When asked if the dress code enforcement was achieving a lasting impact, she said, “It is hard to know if you will be called out for what you are wearing, so it is not worth following it.”

A sophomore held a similar attitude, saying that getting dress-coded is “up to chance” so few students take the rules into consideration. If the overall interpretation of our school dress code is negative, it may discourage students from following the dress standards. She then recalled seeing peers with jeans below their waist who have never faced consequences. “It is hypocritical being dress-coded and noticing others wear similar clothing on the way to the office,” she added, even mentioning that it made dress-coding feel like a joke.

But Henderson held a more enthusiastic outlook, “I have only heard positive things from students so far,” with him recalling some wanting a stricter dress code for years. He also mentioned the sensitivity training held to ensure respectful interactions between faculty and students when disciplining occurs. “Now not everybody buys into that,” Henderson starts. He shared goals that included hosting additional training seminars so more staff members can carry out the dress code in a productive and considerate manner. He hopes that this will help maintain an uplifting, “family environment” on campus.

It is generally accepted that dress codes are essential for a professional or academic environment. However, it is equally important to approach the enforcement of these standards with a thoughtful mindset. The effectiveness of a dress code is determined not solely by its existence but the way it is administered and the impact it has on students.