When it comes to school dress codes, the conversation often spirals into frustration, particularly because many tend to unfairly target female students. These policies frequently impose restrictions on short shorts, skirts, and form-fitting attire, sending a clear message to girls: their bodies must be concealed to maintain a learning environment. Some dress codes even go so far as to limit natural hairstyles, which disproportionately affects students of color, effectively telling them that their cultural expressions are unwelcome in what should be a nurturing space for education.
But do these rules actually serve the student body? Not at all. They suppress diversity and gender equity—values we should be nurturing in our youth.
Enter Lincoln High School in Lincoln, Nebraska, which has just unveiled its updated dress code for the new academic year, and it’s music to our ears. The first section of the comprehensive policy begins with an empowering “dress code philosophy.” Among its standout lines is the bold assertion that “All students and staff must take responsibility for managing their own distractions without imposing regulations on others’ self-expression.” That’s right; at Lincoln High, girls aren’t tasked with the job of hiding their bodies for someone else’s comfort.
Lincoln High’s dress code emphasizes equitable access to education and is structured to avoid reinforcing stereotypes. It explicitly states that the enforcement of the dress code must not perpetuate marginalization based on factors such as race, gender identity, sexual orientation, or even body type.
Thank you, Lincoln High!
Of course, this doesn’t mean students can wear anything they please. The guidelines do specify that certain body parts—namely, genitals, buttocks, breasts, and nipples—must be covered. Shoulders? No problem. Legs? Show them off! Midriffs? They can breathe freely too. The rules dictate that students must wear a shirt, bottoms, and shoes. Acceptable attire includes:
- Hats, either forward or backward, that allow staff to see students’ faces.
- Religious head coverings.
- Hoodies (hoods can be worn, but faces must remain visible).
- Fitted pants, including opaque leggings and skinny jeans.
- Pajamas.
- Ripped jeans, provided no underwear or buttocks are exposed.
- Tank tops and halter tops.
- Athletic wear.
- Visible waistbands or straps from undergarments worn beneath other clothing.
On the flip side, clothing depicting drugs, violence, or hate speech is strictly prohibited, and swimsuits aren’t suitable for school either. But aside from that, students enjoy the freedom to wear what makes them feel comfortable while learning.
What truly distinguishes this dress code is its robust enforcement section, which is the longest part of the document. It lays out clear guidelines ensuring that teachers and administrators cannot apply the rules more stringently based on a student’s sex, gender identity, race, or other personal characteristics. Any student who inadvertently breaks the dress code will not be publicly shamed or forced to wear embarrassing clothing to rectify their “mistake.”
As a result, students at Lincoln High are returning to a school environment that prioritizes comfort and safety, rather than policing their wardrobe choices. This is the kind of progressive approach all schools should adopt.
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Summary
Lincoln High School has introduced a progressive dress code that promotes diversity and equity, allowing students to express themselves freely while maintaining a respectful learning environment. By focusing on personal responsibility and equitable enforcement, this dress code sets a new standard for schools everywhere.