One of the biggest rules enforced in many schools has always been dress code. Dress code dictates the appropriate attire to wear everyday for school. Dress code can be seen as something positive, aiming for safety or simply promoting professionalism. But at the same time, there are debates sparked about whether dress code leads to limitations, such as restricted creativity.  

Miami High’s Dress Code 

 Here in Miami High, according to the school’s official website, the clothing that students can wear are tops that are polos in the colors navy, gold, and white. This includes approved MHS t-shirts or club jerseys. The undershirts and T-shirts must be tucked into pants.  

Skirts are also permitted but must be no shorter than 4” above the knee in navy, khaki, or blue jeans. Also, short skirts or shorts are not allowed regardless of whether you’re wearing leggings under them.  

The clothing that is prohibited from being worn is shirts that expose the midriff (stomach) and any shirts or blouses covering the approved polo shirt or T-shirt. Any T-shirts that have been cut or shredded are also not part of the school dress code.  

Low-cut or low-hanging jeans, oversized shirts, sweatpants, athletic pants or shorts, and yoga/leggings dance attire type pants are also strictly forbidden in school. For shoes, anything that is open toed is strictly disallowed. 

Positive Sides 

  Some people are in favor of the dress code. English teacher Mr. Zabala, states, “I think it definitely has a good effect in having all the kids wear the uniform. Knowing that someone is in the right place and is supposed to be there is a relief and comforting. It’s simply right for the basic safety procedures.” 

Junior Kimberly Gutierrez says, “I think it’s a positive thing because I really like the club shirts and I think with the dress code it will help bring support to the school clubs.” 

Negative Sides 

  Others, however, are opposed to the uniform policy.  Sophomore Emily Soto explains, “It’s not fair. We’re at an age where we are supposed to know what we have to wear. I don’t think it’s fair for them to treat us like elementary school kids when it comes to the uniforms.” 

Junior Sara Sabatier mentions, “They should allow for shirts like graphics or basically anything with cartoons or pictures to be accepted.” 

A Glimpse of Both Sides 

  Many other students believe there should be a balance. Senior Sissi Martinez expresses, “There are some things that should be allowed and not allowed. Like for example, uniforms are useful for recognizing who is a student and overall security for the school and the people in it. But on the other hand, I feel like you shouldn’t get into trouble for wearing black jeans or a top that isn’t a polo. As long as it’s appropriate, I feel like there shouldn’t be an issue.”  

Sophomore Amy Cruz explains, “If it’s unclear, then I can see why there would be a problem. But I don’t think learning and dress code go hand in hand.” 

Sophomore Maria Devers says, “Our learning abilities aren’t affected by what we wear. If it’s something inappropriate, where a lot of skin is shown, it would be logical to address the issue. But at this point at our age, they should let us wear what we want.” 

Adrianna Valdivia added, “In high school we’re almost adults. There should be some restrictions but at the same time they should stop being so strict, because in the end a piece of clothing doesn’t affect anyone.” 

Finally, junior Estefania Chacon explains, “No one pays enough attention to the clothing or what you’re wearing. If that’s what you’re 

 paying attention to, then you’re not paying attention to the right things.”