It is the policy of Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School to have a dress code that reflects a positive attitude towards the school community. The way we dress reflects respect for ourselves, our school community, and for the school’s educational goals. Uniforms are required in the Lower and Intermediate Schools and Middle and Upper School students adhere to a dress code. All students are expected to be neat, clean, modest and appropriately dressed for their learning environment. Cooperation of parents is essential as we work together to ensure that the uniform and dress code policies are followed. Any student whose attire or appearance does not meet the expectations of the faculty and/or administration will not be permitted to attend class until he or she complies with the dress code.
In general, daily dress requires polo, oxford-style, or turtleneck shirts of an appropriate size and fit, with sufficient length to be tucked into pants, shorts or a skirt. Oxford-style shirts must be buttoned. Sweaters, sweatshirts, or jackets may be worn over an approved collared shirt during cold-weather seasons. For girls, a collared business jacket may be worn over a blouse/top, as long as appropriate guidelines for modesty are followed. Dresses, skirts, and shorts must be no more than four inches above the top of the kneecap when measured while standing. All garments must be in good repair. Holes, tears, or noticeable frays are unacceptable. Leggings, footless tights, and skin-tight bottoms are not acceptable, although they may be worn under an appropriate-length skirt or dress during cold weather. Sweatpants, warm-up suits, tennis skirts, athletic shorts, yoga pants, and other athletic gear are unacceptable. Saint Stephen’s team jerseys that cover the shoulders may be worn on Friday spirit days. Acceptable jewelry for piercings is limited to discreet earrings. Students may not wear any facial piercing. Hair color must be in the natural range. Brightly colored hair is not appropriate.
Professional Dress Days
Periodically, students will be asked to dress up for special occasions. Professional dress is defined as clothing that is appropriate for a college/scholarship/job interview or other important professional event. In general, dress-up clothes need to be consistent with professional attire, rather than evening/party wear. Students and families will be informed of these occasions in advance.
Spirit Days
Every Friday is a Spirit Day throughout the entire school. Students may wear their class t-shirt. Alternate Saint Stephen’s t-shirts may be worn with administrative approval. All other components of the dress code remain intact.
When a student is out of dress code, appropriate clothes will be issued at school and the student account will be charged accordingly. Students with repeated dress code violations receive additional consequences.
