The morning of August 29 2022, I showed up to school; It started off with an assembly, as it usually does. Then I went to my advisory class, and got explained the schools rules. Many girls in the class were told to cover up, including myself. I know a handful of people also got sent to the office due to the new dress code, many girls and a few guys. The next day I was more cautious and wore a cardigan; in 90 degree weather, but hey, at least I wasn’t getting dress coded. But a girl I knew was dress coded for showing too much cleavage, and another was sent to the office for showing her shoulders, which is a body part that every single person has. I find it absolutely ridiculous that a couple of people get to decide how hundreds of students get to dress. This needs to change.

Not only is the dress code outdated but also extremely sexist, targeted mostly at females. “The district's dress code is established to promote appropriate grooming and hygiene, prevent disruption, and avoid safety
hazards. In addition to the district policy on dress and grooming, dress issues often constitute conflicts with district policy on
sexual harassment and gangs. Such dress can, at times, for some students, create a hostile school environment.” This is quoted directly from the student handbook. Also, please note that RHS is not only a High School, but also a Junior High. So the kids getting dress coded range from the ages of 12-18. It is insane how a teacher can look at a student and say “Your outfit isn’t appropriate please cover up or go to the office.” with no shame, not even quietly whispering it to the student. 

Did the teachers get taught to do that during training? Are they being paid to dress code students whenever they get the chance? We are not what we wear and we shouldn’t be judged for it. As teenagers we have it hard enough with trying to graduate, teachers and staff shouldn’t have to make it harder by telling us that what we are wearing is distracting to our peers. The only thing that is distracting to our peers is the fact that the teacher decides to make a big deal about a shirt that doesn’t completely cover our stomach, shoulders, or chest. Not only does this take time away from the lesson, but it also embarrasses the student and makes them feel like they’re the problem; and if anyone does feel distracted by what somebody is wearing they would probably speak up about it, which in the time i’ve gone to school at RHS, has not happened. I go to school to get an education, not to worry about getting dress coded.