Students going back to school at St.

Thursday, August 17, 2000

Students going back to school at St. Lawerence grade school and St. Joseph Central Catholic High School Monday will notice a change in the school system from the moment they get up and pick out their school clothes.

That’s because the two schools are changing their dress code for this year.

"We’ve gone to a more conservative dress code," principal James Mains III said. "Students will be wearing khakis this year."

Mains said that the dress code changes came about at the reccomendation of the student council.

"Last year, students could wear any color trouser they wanted, and any type of polo shirt," Mains said. "The changes create more conformity in the dress code."

The dress code for students limits trouser colors this year to navy blue, black or beige/green. Girls may also wear khaki skirts in the same colors. All shirts must have a collar and must be of a solid color.

Students will still find famillar rules as well. Many of the rules for hairstyles, shoes, sweaters and shorts remain the same. Boys must wear their hair short. Dress shoes with visible socks are required. Dress shorts will be permitted until Oct. 15 and after April 15, provided that they are an appropriate length, and in the same color khaki as the trousers. Only school sweatshirts are permitted.

Only v-neck, pullover or cardigan-type sweaters may be worn, and a shirt with a visible collar must be worn underneath.

Students may observe a casual style of dress on designated jean days. On those days students may wear denim jeans, shorts, T-shirts and other casual clothing.

In addition to the new dress code, students will see changes in their school itself.

Mains said that over the summer months, St. Joseph’s has been making improvements to the school building. The high school gym floor and ceiling have been redone. The brickwork in the gym has been sandblasted so that the brick is new-looking. The third floor has been repainted.

The floors at St. Joseph also have been stripped and waxed.

Mains said that he hoped students would take pride in their school, and in the changes. He would also like to see parents get interested in their children and the school.

"We would like to encourage the parents to get involved with their children’s academic life. We appreciate interest on the part of parents in what their children are doing in school."