School Uniform

UNIFORM & DRESS CODE – All Students

In order to create a consistent and safe environment that is free of distractions, PHCSE will institute a uniform dress code for all students. We believe that a higher standard of dress encourages greater respect for individuals, students and others, and results in a higher standard of behavior. In other words, students who come to school dressed properly will excel academically and conduct themselves appropriately while at school. 

All students are expected to take pride in their appearance. Any form of dress and/or personal appearance that distracts or disrupts the educational environment or tends to diminish instructional effectiveness or the disciplinary control of the teacher is considered a safety concern will not be permitted.

These beliefs are supported by research into the benefits of uniforms, though conventional wisdom suggests that mandatory uniform policies benefit students on specific behavioral issues (attendance and self-control) and academic outcomes. Uniform policies also affect school environments and student outcomes by providing a visible and public symbol of commitment to school improvement and reform. 

Moreover, PHCSE is a model for innovation in public education. Thus, “excellence in all we do” must permeate everything at PHCSE, including how we dress. Parents are also to be reminded that our MicroSociety environment is preparing students for the real world and will communicate the importance of creating a positive first impression.  With that stated, the Uniform and Dress Code Policy was crafted in an effort to ensure that we “look the part” and represent our school community with pride and excellence while being sensitive to the diverse socio-economic needs of our families.

SCHOOL UNIFORM:

Tops

All uniform tops must be purchased from Ibiley:

  • Royal Blue, Yellow, or White top with school logo (short or long sleeved)
  • Outerwear worn in school must be solid/plain BLACK (sweaters, sweatshirts, or lightweight jackets, cardigan, vest, fleece)
    • Hoodies are NOT permitted

Bottoms/Shoes

  • Khaki or black bottoms (pants, shorts, scooter/skirt/skort/jumper **)
    • **Skirts/scooters/skorts/jumpers must be no less than a “fingertip length” when standing with arms relaxed at your side. The bottom of the garment should reach the tip of your longest finger.
    • Leggings may only be worn under pants, shorts, scooter/skirt/skort/jumpers. 
  • All shoes must be closed in the front and back. Any color is permitted.

CHANGE OF CLOTHING (Required for K-2, optional for 3-8)

Outdoor activity can often lead to dirty or ripped clothing. PHCSE students should keep a set of clothes at school in the event that their clothing becomes soiled during the day.  This should include a school uniform (e.g., a top, bottom, underwear, socks, and preferably shoes.)  Please put your child’s spare clothing in a Ziploc bag with their name written on it. Teachers will store this clothing in the classroom and return it at the end of the school year.

DRESS DOWN DAYS

Every Friday is a dress down day. When students are permitted to wear clothes other than their uniforms, they should fit appropriately, be free of holes, and should not have the potential to cause a distraction to the learning environment.

Sandals are permitted if they are secure and school-appropriate. No flip-flops, slides, or bedroom-style footwear. Closed-toe shoes required for PE, labs, and certain activities.

Clothing and shoes not acceptable at any time include:

  • T-shirts with inappropriate messages
  • Tube tops
  • Sleeveless shirts (spaghetti straps, tank tops, beaters, etc.)
  • Midriff tops
  • Low cut shirts
  • “Excessively” ripped blue jeans/pants
  • Short shorts, skirts, and/or dresses (Hemlines above fingertip level are not appropriate.)
  • Excessively tight clothing
  • Hats/Bandanas (unless permitted during special dress down days)
  • Pajamas (unless permitted during special dress down days)
  • Slides/Slippers
  • Flip-flops
  • Beach sandals
  • Crocs 
  • Any footwear considered a safety hazard

PHCSE reserves the right to judge the appropriateness of dress down day attire. Parents/guardians of students who are inappropriately dressed will be required to bring a change of clothes to school for their child.