FAQ on Standardized Dress
- Why are many Garland ISD schools adopting standardized dress/uniform policies?
- GISD schools have students from a wide range of economic backgrounds. When all of the students are dressed similarly, a child will not be singled out if his/her clothing is not the “latest fashion trend.” Many schools have noticed positive differences in student behavior after implementing standardized dress code policies.
- What is the difference between “standardized dress” and “uniforms”?
- A “uniform” requires specific brands of clothing. “Standardized dress” calls for general clothing types. For example, a school with standardized dress might require khaki slacks (with or without pleats, with or without pockets), a red polo-style shirt and socks with closed-toe shoes (could be sneakers, loafers, lace-up shoes). With a uniform policy, the school would require that those items be made by Company XYZ and be specific clothing types (Example: Khaki slacks with belt loops, pockets, but no pleats, red polo shirt, and socks with black lace-up shoes). None of the GISD elementary schools are adopting “uniform” dress code policies.
- Garland ISD is an “open enrollment” district. If I choose a different elementary school that also has a standardized dress policy, will I have to purchase an all-new wardrobe?
- The schools choosing the “standardized” policies have all agreed to common color selections, so what is appropriate at one school will also be appropriate at another.
- Where can I find clothing for my child that will conform to the “standardized” dress policies?
- Just about any chain store that carries children’s clothing will carry items that conform to the “standardized” dress code. (Example: Target, Kohl’s, Levine’s, Wal-Mart, etc.) Some stores even have “uniform” departments, but parents should be sure that the colors and styles conform to the guidelines in the brochure.
- Will the new dress code be enforced every school day?
- Students are expected to arrive at school dressed appropriately for the school day. Each school has the option to choose specific days when alternative clothing may be worn. (Examples: School Spirit Day, Career Day, College Day, Free Dress Day, etc.)
- What kind of clothing is required?
- All students may choose from:
• Red, navy, or white polo-style shirts (short or long sleeve, no logos)
• Red, navy or white sweaters or sweatshirts
• Navy or khaki slacks or shorts (no cargo-style slacks or shorts; shorts must be modest length, approximately 2 inches above the knee or longer)
• Shoes and socks (tennis shoes, loafers, dress shoes, or other closed-toe shoes. Tennis shoes will be necessary for physical education classes.)
• Belts (Usually preferred; check with individual campus for specific requirements.)
Girls may also choose:
• Navy, khaki or plaid skirt, skort, capris or jumper (skirt, skort or jumper should be of modest length – approximately 2 inches above the knee or longer; plaids should be a red/blue combination