Dress Code

Student Dress Code and Uniform Requirements 

In order to facilitate the optimal academic focus in our school, the following Dress Code and Uniform Requirements have been implemented (and approved) at Lawrence Middle School:

 

Be Safe

1. Pocket chains are not allowed on campus.

2. Gauges with points and any other jewelry that possess a potential hazard are not permitted.

3. Platform shoes/boots, open-toed, open-heel (Crocs), sandals, slippers and/or high heels are not permitted

Be Responsible

1. Only "Approved" Lawrence Middle School hats, visors, and shirts (i.e. AVID, Band, Class shirts, etc.), are allowed to be worn in lieu of a polo shirt.  Clubs and club shirts must be approved per LAUSD Policy Publication 465 and the LMS Student Council.  Any approved clothing shall be clearly identified with "Lawrence Middle School" or "LMS.” Hats, visors or beanies  must be worn outside only.  They will be taken away if they are worn inside a building on campus. The brim must be facing forward at all times.  Any other non-official hat, hood, or headgear of any kind is not permitted and will be removed and held in the Dean’s Office until picked up by a parent/guardian. 

2. Shorts, skirts, and dresses MUST be at least finger-tip length.

3. Leggings (except for black), jeggings, yoga pants, bike-shorts and tights MAY NOT be worn at any time. 

4. Any clothing or accessories that are considered disruptive to the educational process are not permitted. 

5. Graffiti, gang-style writing, and inappropriate language or symbols are not permitted on any body part, backpack, books, clothing, notebooks, planners, lockers or any other item when on school property.

6. Shorts may not be worn in conjunction with high socks.

7. Gloves may not be worn on campus.

8. Pajamas are not permitted except on designated Pajama Day(s).

9. Blankets are not allowed at school and not acceptable to wear as a jacket.

Be Respectful

1. Students shall wear a solid color “polo” style shirt (a “pullover” shirt that has a collar and sleeves) and must be long enough to be tucked into pants/shorts/skirts. The shirt collar must be visible when an outer garment (jacket, sweater, etc.) is worn. All shirts MUST have sleeves. T-shirts and/or blouses, flannels, and button-up shirts SHALL NOT be worn over the polo shirt. Exposed midsections, backs, cleavage, bare shoulders and see-through tops are not permitted. 

2. Ripped pants are not allowed.

3. Jackets, outer clothing and sun-protective wear must follow LMS Dress Code Requirements.  

4. All pants must remain at the waist without the use of a belt, and may not be more than one size too large (not oversized).

5. Belts cannot be oversized and hang down from belt loops, and belt buckles with initials are not permitted.

6. White tee shirts are considered undergarments and are not permitted at school without an outer garment covering them.

7. Clothing or insignias that are vulgar or profane, or that advocate racial, ethnic or religious prejudice, gang affiliation, or the use of tobacco, drugs or alcohol, are not permitted. 

8. ALL dress code rules and regulations are applicable any time that students are on campus.

The Administration and School Based Management reserve the right, if necessary, to add, delete or modify this list, especially any and all items which affect the safety and security of our students and staff.  Consequences may include, but are not limited to: a parent contact or conference, a directive to cover the non-complying clothing, or be provided with appropriate, clean clothing to wear for the remainder of the school day.
 

B. Criteria and Procedure for Identification of Families in need of Financial Assistance

Financial assistance shall be determined by factors including, but not limited to: Title I identification and the meal application submission as overseen by the LAUSD Food Service Division.  Extenuating circumstances will also be taken into consideration on an “as needed” basis.  The Title I Coordinator and/or Assistant Principal’s Office will assist when verification and/or identification is required to guarantee confidentiality and privacy.

 

C. Financial Assistance Provider

Financial assistance (as per section B of this policy) in the way of providing uniform polo shirts to students will be provided by the Lawrence Middle School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO).

 

D. Designated Staff Member/School Volunteer 

The Lawrence Middle School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) representative/board member(s) and the Lawrence Middle School Parent Center Volunteer Coordinator(s) will be the designated staff/volunteer members who will oversee the distribution of polo shirts to qualified students.  Other staff/volunteers may also assist in the distribution of polo shirts.

 

E. Immediate Enrollment Procedures

Students who enroll at Lawrence Middle School after the beginning of the school year will be immediately provided with all pertinent school information in order to assist them with their success at the school.  Information provided will include, but is not limited to: a school agenda, locker and locker card, copy of Student/Parent Handbook, copy of class schedule, meal application and Dress Code and Uniform Policy. Students with special circumstances (homeless, foster care, financial issues, etc.) will be provided with an appropriate and compliant polo shirt if needed.  The parent/guardian will be both verbally advised, and in writing, concerning the Dress Code and Uniform Requirements at time of enrollment by a designated school employee as necessary.

 

F. Orientation Dress Code and Uniform Policy Flyer

See Attachment B

 

G. Uniform Non- Compliance Regulations

The Dress Code and Uniform Policy shall not consider a student as noncompliant with the policy in the following instances: 

1) When noncompliance derives from financial hardship. 

2) When a student wears a button, armband or other accouterment to exercise the right to freedom of expression as provided by Education Code 48907, unless the button, armband or other accouterment falls outside speech protected by First Amendment, or signifies or is related to gangs, gang membership or gang activity as provided by Education Code 35183. 

3) When a student wears the uniform of a nationally recognized youth organization on regular meeting days. 

4) When wearing a school uniform violates a student’s sincerely held religious belief. 

5) When a student’s parent or guardian has chosen the Secondary Uniform Option of the school uniform policy by following the procedures set forth in Section J.

 

H. Consequences for Non-Compliance

Students will not be disciplined or removed from class as a consequence for wearing “inappropriate” attire. However, a student may briefly leave the classroom to change clothes. The school will notify parents/guardians of the school’s response to student violations of the Dress Code and Uniform Requirements. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: a parent contact and/or conference, a directive to cover the non-complying/inappropriate clothing, or be provided with appropriate, clean clothing to wear for the remainder of the school day. If the student is wearing clothing that is a safety hazard and is not otherwise exempted, the school may direct the student to remove or replace that article of clothing.

 

I. Complaint Procedure

Should a parent/guardian or student have a complaint, concern, or issue with the adopted Dress Code and Uniform Guidelines or the Lawrence Middle School Dress Code and Uniform Policy, they shall be encouraged to speak to the Intervention Coordinator, Administrator, Secondary Uniform Guideline Committee or designated LMS staff member.  If a solution is not identified, the concerned party shall be directed to speak to the appropriate local district office employee.

 

J.  Secondary Uniform Guidelines (process, form, identification card, master list) 

If a student’s parents/guardians choose the Secondary Uniform Guideline Option, and choose not to have the student comply with the school uniform policy, the student shall not be penalized academically, suspended or expelled from school, or otherwise discriminated against or denied attendance to school or participation in school activities. Parents/guardians choosing to opt out of the school uniform policy shall indicate such choice by submitting a written statement (Attachment C) to the Uniform and Dress Code Secondary Uniform Guideline Committee and request a meeting with the Committee to discuss their concerns. Parents/guardians will be notified of their right to the Secondary Uniform Option of the school uniform policy. 

Attachment C is provided to parents/guardians who ask to opt out. Parents/guardians are not required to explain or justify their decision to choose the Secondary Uniform option. Parents/guardians will be notified of their right to choose the Secondary Uniform option of the school uniform policy as described in the following: 

1) At the parent’s/guardian request, the school shall provide the parent/guardian with the Secondary Uniform option form. 

2) The completed Secondary Uniform option form is effective immediately upon receipt by the school. 

3) Upon receipt of the completed Secondary Uniform option form and meeting with the Secondary Uniform Guideline Committee, Lawrence Middle School will provide the student with an identification card (Attachment D). Upon issuance of the identification card, LMS will inform the student that this identification card will be carried along with the student identification card, in school and to all school activities and events. 

4) The Intervention Office will maintain a list of students who have chosen the Secondary Uniform option of the school uniform policy to ensure these students enjoy the same rights and privileges as all other students attending the school (Attachment E). The school will notify appropriate school staff of those students who have opted out.

5) Replacement of the Secondary Uniform Option Card will be completed by the Intervention Office.  One (1) free replacement will be provided.  Additional lost cards will result in a $1.00 replacement fee.
 

Lawrence Middle School Dress Code and Uniform Policy

(Approved: SBM on 2/21/23, LAUSD on 4/8/2023  )

 

This Dress Code and Uniform Policy is based on the following principles:

 

-  The primary focus of school is to maintain a safe and effective learning environment.

-  All students are encouraged to dress in a manner that is comfortable and conducive to an active school day.

-  All students should be able to wear clothing without fear of unnecessary discipline or body shaming.

-  The student Dress Code and Uniform Policy serves to support a positive self-image.

 

Lawrence Middle School is authorized to implement and adopt the District’s student dress code and/or establish a school student uniform policy consistent with LAUSD bulletin (BUL- 6494.2, Dec. 7, 2020) as a component of the Safe School Plan. School Based Management (SBM) in collaboration with the LMS Administration, Staff and Associated Student Body reserves the right to modify this policy as necessary.

A. Uniform Policy

Students must wear a polo shirt (pullover style with collar and sleeves) or a collared shirt (button-up style with collar and sleeves) when on campus and during school events. 

 

B. Dress Code Policy

1. Clothing: Must fully cover private areas. 

2. Undergarments: Must not be visible (i.e. bra straps, underwear, etc.). 

3. Shoes: Must cover the entire foot.

4. Pants:  Must fit at the waist and stay at waist-level with or without a belt. Pant legs should not drag on the ground.

5. Headgear and Jewelry: Beanies and caps must be a solid color (with no logos). “LMS” caps, beanies and visors (purchased at the Student Store) may also be worn. Caps, beanies, visors and non-prescription sunglasses may not be worn indoors. Bandanas may not be worn. Hoods may only be worn outdoors during times of inclement weather. Students are allowed to wear jewelry or attire representative of their religious faith, including, but not limited to: a crucifix, yarmulke, headscarf, hijab or turban.

6. Clothing, jewelry, and personal items: Any item(s) with language or images that are vulgar, sexually explicit, discriminatory, obscene, libelous, contain threats, or that promote illegal or violent content such as the unlawful use of weapons, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, gang affiliation or drug paraphernalia, are prohibited. 

7. Blankets/Pajamas: Are not allowed.

8. The Dress Code and Uniform Policy may be modified for special school events (i.e. Pajama Day, Jersey Day, Formal, etc.) 

 

C. Process to Support Compliance 

• Teachers/Staff will monitor during passing periods and as students enter class. 

• Students out of compliance may be sent briefly to the Counseling Office with appropriate referral.

• If alternatives are not available at school, a parent will be contacted by school staff and offered the opportunity to bring appropriate clothing.

• Teachers/Staff will document all violation(s) in MiSiS (Interventions). 

• Further action based on multiple Dress Code or Uniform Policy violations logged in MiSiS will be reviewed on a case by case basis and handled by school staff.

D. Financial Assistance

Any student in need of clothing in order to comply with the LMS Dress Code and Uniform Policy will be referred to the Counseling Office where clothing may be provided based on availability. 

E. Enrollment Procedures

Students who enroll at Lawrence Middle School will be immediately provided with all pertinent school information in order to assist them with their success at the school. Information provided may include, but is not limited to: locker and locker card, copy of Student/Parent Handbook, copy of class schedule, meal application and Dress Code and Uniform Policy. Students with special circumstances (homeless, foster care, financial issues, etc.) will be provided with clothing for compliance (as available). The parent/guardian will be advised both verbally, and in writing, concerning the Dress Code and Uniform Policy at time of enrollment by the Attendance Office/Main Office/Counseling Office/Assistant Principals Office/Dean’s Office (as appropriate).

 

F.  Non-Compliance

The Dress Code and Uniform Policy shall not consider a student as noncompliant with the policy when:

1. Noncompliance derives from financial hardship. In this circumstance, Lawrence Middle School or the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) may provide appropriate clothing as available.

2. A student wears the uniform of a nationally recognized youth organization on regular meeting days.

3. Wearing a school uniform conflicts with a student’s sincerely held religious belief.

4. A student’s parent or guardian has chosen to opt-out of the school’s Uniform Policy. The procedures set forth in Section I shall be followed.

G. Consequences for Non-Compliance

Students will not be disciplined or unenrolled from school as a consequence for wearing attire that violates the school Dress Code or Uniform Policy. However, a student may briefly leave the classroom to cover, remove or change the non-complying clothing. The school (Teachers, Staff, Counseling Office or Administration) will notify parents/guardians of the school’s response to student violations of the Dress Code and Uniform Policy. Restorative and non-punitive options shall be used to increase adherence to the Dress Code and Uniform Policy. 

The site administrators have the authority to restrict clothing, signs, attire, or paraphernalia, which are identified as being gang related or which could reasonably be foreseen to create a hostile or unsafe environment among rival gangs, individuals, or groups. Urban fashion in and of itself is not “gang-related” apparel.

 

H. Complaint Procedures

Should a parent/guardian or student have a complaint, concern, or issue with the Dress Code and Uniform Policy, they shall be encouraged to speak to the Administration. If a solution is not identified, the concerned party shall be directed to speak to the appropriate local district office employee.

I. Uniform Opt-Out Guidelines

If a student’s parents/guardians opt-out of the school’s Uniform Policy, the student shall not be penalized academically, suspended, or expelled from school, or otherwise discriminated against or denied attendance to school or participation in school activities.

Parents/guardians choosing to opt-out of the school’s Uniform Policy shall indicate such choice by submitting a written statement (Attachment A) to the Dress Code and Uniform Policy Committee (composed of teachers, administrators and school staff).

Parents/guardians are not required to explain or justify their decision to opt-out of the Uniform Policy. Parents/guardians will be notified of their right to opt-out of the school Uniform Policy as described in the following:

1. At the parent/guardian request, the school shall provide the parent/guardian with the Uniform Opt-Out form (Attachment A).

2. The completed Uniform Opt-Out form is effective immediately upon receipt by the school.

3. Upon receipt of the completed Uniform Opt-Out form and meeting with the Dress Code and Uniform Policy Committee, Lawrence Middle School will provide the student with an Opt-Out Identification Card (ATTACHMENT B). Upon issuance of the Identification Card, LMS will inform the student that this identification card must be carried along with their LMS student identification card while on school property and to all school activities and events. If the card is not carried, the parent/guardian will be contacted by the Counseling Office.

4) The Counseling Office will maintain a list of students (ATTACHMENT C) who have chosen to opt-out of the school Uniform Policy to ensure these students enjoy the same rights and privileges as all other students attending school. The school will notify appropriate school staff of those students who have opted-out.

5) Replacement of the Opt-Out Identification Card will be completed by the counseling office. One

(1) free replacement will be provided. Additional lost cards may result in a $1.00 replacement fee.

 

ATTACHMENT A

 

Ernest Lawrence Middle School

Parent-Guardian Acknowledgement and Opt-Out of Uniform Policy

 

I have been informed of the Uniform Policy. As the parent/guardian of _______________________________

_______________________________________(please print name of child), I am choosing to opt-out of the Uniform Policy for my child, effective immediately, for the current academic year. I have received a copy of the Parent-Student Handbook, which outlines Guidelines for Student Dress and the Lawrence Middle School Dress Code and Uniform Policy, if applicable. I understand that my child must still comply with all current Dress Code policies and that my child must carry the Opt-Out Identification Card while on school property or during school events. I have also been informed that at any time, I may inform the school that I would like my child to participate in the School Uniform Policy and may revoke this decision to opt out.

 

Your child will not be penalized academically, subject to any disciplinary action or disparaging treatment or denied attendance to school or participation in school activities due to opting out of LMS Uniform Policy.

 

Date:__________________

Print Student Name: _________________________________________________________ Grade: ________

Print Parent/Guardian Name: _________________________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature: __________________________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Phone Number: ______________________________________________________________

 

ATTACHMENT B

 

 

ATTACHMENT C

Lawrence Middle School Uniform Opt Out Roster

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The school will maintain a list of students who have opted out of the school uniform policy to ensure these students enjoy the same rights and privileges as all other students. Students will not be penalized academically, subject to any disciplinary action or disparaging treatment or denied attendance to school or participation in school activities due to opting out of this school uniform policy.