The dress code at MVHS is an important part of creating a positive and non-disruptive learning environment for all students. Your dress reflects the quality of the school, your conduct, and your schoolwork. We take pride in the appearance of our students. It is to be understood that the school standard for appearance will likely be different from the standard outside of school. School Administrators, staff, and district personnel reserve the right to determine whether a student's attire is disruptive to the learning environment. Individual teachers may require specific appearance and attire with special consideration for safety, cleanliness, and reinforcement of course curriculum.

Dress Code Objectives

Our dress code objectives are to build and reinforce work habits. Most jobs require a standard for dress and appearance. Learning at an early age to accept that standard will make it easier to be successful with appearance later in life. Dress and appearance at our school or at school-sponsored activities should promote a healthy and safe environment. Attire should not be disruptive to the educational process.

• Shirts and shoes must be worn.
• No sunglasses or novelty contact lenses.
• Any clothing that exposes excessive bare skin or bare midriff may not be worn except when covered by an appropriate outer garment.
• Inappropriate face painting will NOT be permitted.
• No spaghetti straps. Tank tops must have sides closed.
• No head bandanas, "head rags," or handkerchiefs, no matter the color (Spirit Days are the only exception--white and green only). Clothing made from bandanas or made to look like bandana material is also not allowed.
• Such clothing considered distracting or too revealing may include, but not be limited to, items such as see-through garments, halters, backless dresses or tops, tube tops, etc.
• Sagging pants that show undergarments are not acceptable. Skirts and shorts must be no shorter than the fingertips of an extended arm.
• Clothing which carries a vulgar or offensive message, has references to the use of hate, violence, alcohol, drugs, or that implies gang affiliation (including hanging cloth belts) will not be permitted. Spikes, chains, handcuffs, trench coats, etc. that are considered a potential safety hazard will not be permitted.
• Gang-related tattoos will not be allowed at Mount Vernon High School and must be covered at all times. Non-compliance is not a dress code violation: it is a gang policy violation and will lead to suspension.
• Students who identify themselves as gang-affiliated (or who are identified as such by the Mount Vernon Police) will not be allowed to wear more than two items of the same color (red, blue, brown, for example). Violation is a gang policy violation and will lead to suspension.

CONSEQUENCES OF DRESS CODE VIOLATION

First violation — a student inappropriately dressed will receive a warning, and be expected to find alternative clothing for the remainder of the day;

Second violation — the student will be sent home to change.

For more information about code violations and school policies, please see the Student Handbook.