Stanton College Preparatory School in Jacksonville, Florida, has hit a new low. While they are renowned for their academics, being ranked #1 several times for their International Baccalaureate program in the US, their fame has now turned to infamy with the latest dress code scandal.
This photo has taken the internet by storm. Displaying different "inappropriate", except the one "appropriate" dress which makes the wearer a "good girl". Have we been reduced to bitches? This was disgusting, disrespectful, and downright sexist. Note the lack of male dress code regulations. Do they have to wear a tie? Specific shoes? Or does it only matter what the girls where?
The reaction to this story as been incredible. Students have come together to fight the administration's acts by using their Spirit week to combat the sexism. Both girls and boys have worn shirts with the female symbol and have spoken out on social media about the heinous acts.
While this story is a far extreme to the reactions of dress code, this isn't too rare to find in Jacksonville schools. Where I came from, the male administration was often seen watching students on the sidewalks and searching for dress code violations. This was often regarded creepy and perverted, yet they hid behind the rules of the dress code to allow their behavior.
Living in Florida especially, most of the school year consists of 80 degree weather. We were required to cover up, not even allowed spaghetti straps under a cardigan. If we did, the administration were permitted to ask us to remove our cardigans to prove we have a contraband sleeve. Since when was it permissible in any situation for faculty to request we remove our clothes?
There were other similar instances, such as when the rule for knee-length skirt changed to 3 inches above the knee. Despite the change, I still felt exposed and indecent when I wore anything not below my knees. This is 2017. I should NOT feel guilty or immoral for showing my knees in public.
I kept my mouth shut during my high school years because I knew my voice would be disregarded. I deeply regret this, because this is an issue worth fighting for. We need to feel comfortable and safe in schools, not as if we are under the perverted scrutiny of the faculty.
We need to come together. We need to see change. We need to teach our young people that what you wear does NOT give perverted eyes permission to stare.
