Dear Parents,
This past winter, a group of parents and teachers was formed to discuss the results of parent and teacher surveys regarding school uniforms for students. The group first identified issues raised by teachers and parents with the current policy and discussed the pros and cons of a school uniform. Common themes from their discussions emerged and became objectives for the new code. As solutions were proposed, the group continually returned to the issues raised to determine if the proposal solved one of the issues. These objectives were identified in coming up with a plan for appropriate student dress.
· Students are comfortable in their clothes
· Options that fit all body types
· Nice clothes for times when representing the school
· Easy to enforce by teachers
· Promote school spirit
· Some options for freedom of expression.
The attached Dress Policy for 2024-25 is a combination of the work of this group over four meetings with a couple tweaks made at the Elementary Education Committee level when they approved the policy at their February meeting.
One of the biggest changes you will see is that students will wear a Grace Polo shirt on chapel days and for other special events. Later this spring you will have the opportunity to see options for this and order what you wish for next school year.
I am grateful to the parents and teachers who were part of the discussion group and proud of how well they worked together in this process.
Change can be hard. I understand that. If you have any questions regarding the student dress policy for 2024-25, you may contact me.
Serving Grace,
Bill Koehne
Principal
