Q - Why is there a change from the first proposal sent out in January? A - The process for establishing the Dress Code involved numerous discussions, research, revisions, listening sessions, and defining of goals. The proposal sent out in January was just that - a proposal - designed to elicit feed back from families to help the administration understand what family friendly might mean. From the strengths and challenges received, discussions and revisions continued until the Dress Code was finalized.
Q - Will the teachers have a dress code? A - Yes. Discussions about staff/faculty dress will begin shortly.
Q - What is meant by "graphics"? A - The definition/thought about "graphics" in the Dress Code is "What does the shirt/top look like?" For our Dress Code, shirts and tops are to be the solid (plain) designated colors (Burgundy, Navy Blue, White, or Light Gray") or be one of those solid colors adorned with the school crest or a small, discreet factory logo. No other designs, pictures, or words are to be on the shirts/tops. Q - Is what is on the website all that is available? A - The items presently on view in the open website are ones which will be adorned with the school crest. The second online store will feature the school plaid, as well as other items with the school crest. Families may acquire their Dress Code apparel from any store and are not required to purchase items bearing the school crest. As we receive feedback regarding what families are looking for in the way of clothing, more items can be added to the online school stores. Q - Who will be monitoring the Dress Code? A - We trust that parents who choose to enroll their children in St. Philip's School will monitor their children's wardrobe to be in compliance with the Dress Code. Should there be a question regarding a particular item, "the faculty and administration of St. Philip's School have the right to decide the suitability and acceptability of any and all garments and items, even when not specifically mentioned or prohibited. The administration will make the final determination on Dress Code interpretation and enforcement." Q - What will be the consequences of not following the Dress Code? A - The faculty and administration will be discussing and establishing the consequences for not complying with the Dress Code. The Dress Code goes into effect in August 2025. Q - Are hoodies allowed? A - According to the Dress Code, hoodies are allowed on Fridays, except during Lent or on Mass Days, as part of our St. Philip's Spirit Wear Days. On those Spirit Wear Days the St. Philip's School name needs to appear on the hoodies. There are also Selected Special Days which, depending on what is chosen for the day, could allow other hoodies to be worn. Hoodies, however, are not included as a regular Dress Code approved item at this time. I will tell you that the plan is to annually review the Dress Code, looking at questions that have been asked regarding it, and determining if adjustments are necessary.
Q - Why aren't gray pants allowed? A - From the beginning of our discussions, only three colors (Black, Navy Blue, Khaki-colored) were selected/offered for pants - because those were the colors that were observed most often in school - and they went with the colors selected for the tops. Could this be an adjustment for a later time? Perhaps.