- Note: Only students, parents of students, people involved with the school at NRMS, and residents of the school districts should sign this petition, it will make it more effective.

In North Royalton Middle School, where I attend as an eighth grader, it is required in our dress code that girls must wear shorts that at least meet the fingertip. It seems simple, but it is really a daily frustration for girls, especially those with long arms like me.

The point is to ensure that our clothing is appropriate, as to not "distract" the boys. But isn't it more distracting to have girls constantly worrying about their clothing? And why should it be our responsibility to ensure that the boys aren't distracted.

And the point actually backfires, with the boys in my grade bullying the girls about their bodies. In gym class, when my shorts didn't meet the rules, the boys called out "Are those fingertip length?" No girl should have to deal with the humiliation I felt. We should not be shamed for our bodies because of an unfair system.

Supporters of this rule may claim that it is fair since it applies to boys and girls, but it disproportionately affects girls, as shorts marketed to boys are always long. Shorts marketed to girls tend to be shorter, and thus disproportionately affect them.

Finally, despite the fact that the school handbook claims that it is easy to find shorts that meet the rules, it is nearly impossible for girls with long arms like me. Shopping is a nightmare when I can't find shorts that meet the rule and look good. Even our cross-country uniforms don't meet the rule. Observe:

My proposal is to have the school revisit the issue. I believe that it would be more fair to have just a "common sense" rule - to simply ask girls to not wear shorts that are super revealing. There are also other options, such as a rule about the inseam. We are not asking to wear super short shorts or bikini bottoms. We are asking for a fair dress code.