The Austin Independent School District is changing its dress code for the 2019-2020 school year.
On Monday night, the school board voted to change its policies following a growing number of complaints that the current code is sexist and racist.
Currently, articles of clothing such as hooded sweatshirts, halter tops, and hats are banned under the dress code. But beginning next school year, that will all be acceptable under the new guidelines. The new code also goes to great lengths to make sure female students don’t feel singled out, and any public shaming of a student’s clothing choice will be expressly forbidden.
Students who choose to wear clothing of the opposite gender will also be protected from any public comments.
At the crux of the new code is AISD’s vision of decency, requiring both boys and girls to wear clothing that does not expose bare skin on the stomach, rear-end, or chest. The code will require traditional pants, skirts or dresses, and all shirts must be long enough to reach the waistband. No underwear can be visible. Shoes will still be required.
AISD will continue its ban on clothing showing inflammatory statements, promoting violence, or encouraging hate speech. No student will be allowed to cover their face unless for religious reasons.
All of these changes will take effect in August.
