New Dress Code For Students in Rumson School District

Update: This article has been updated since its original publication to clarify that the board has not indicated a specific retailer for purchases of clothing that falls within the dress code.

The has made some changes to the school's dress code. Instead of moving towards uniforms for the students, the district has implemented a new dress code and a series of consequences for violations.

"Since we clarified the language and added consequences in the new dress code, it should be easier for parents and students to plan their wardrobe accordingly," said Colleen O'Connor, president of the Rumson Board of Education.

A committee was formed to work together and create the details of the dress code. The new dress code was developed by the input of students, parents, teachers, administrators and the Board of Education.

"The committee did disagree at times, but in the end everyone was pleased with the outcome of the policy," O'Connor said.

The board sent out a letter to parents in June outlining the details of the new dress code. According the dress code, absolutely no revealing clothing can be worn. Dresses and skirts must be an appropriate length. Clothing cannot be ragged, torn or tight fitting. Students cannot show their shoulders and clothing cannot be offensive. Clothing that fits within the limits of the dress code may be purchased from any retailer.

According to O'Connor, 75% of people within the school community were satisfied with the existing dress code according to a study done online. The board will conduct another survey next year after implementation of the new policy.

Rumson teachers and administrators will assist in making sure students are adhering to the dress code. In the letter sent out to parents, there was also a list of consequences to dress code violations. Warnings, parent conferences, and possible suspension are all consequences of dress code violations. 

According to Deborah Mishan, owner of Skye Blue & Charlotte in Fair Haven, the students are panicking about the new dress code more then the parents. "The students don't know what they will wear to school now that they can't wear short-shorts and tank tops," Mishan said. "Most parents are happy about the new dress code, others are a little skeptical about what their kids will wear."