Dress Code

Welcome to the Next Chapter!

The foundation is our LEGACY and the blueprint is our future.

At Booker T. Washington High School, our dress code and culture reflect our commitment to representing our community with pride, professionalism, and purpose. Encouraging these guidelines creates a safe, focused environment where distractions are minimized and our SCHOLARS can thrive as One School, One Family, One Way.

What are the core values behind "The Washington Way"?

We encourage our Scholars to uphold four core principles every day:

• Respectful: Treat everyone with dignity and kindness. Respect each other.
• Responsible: Own your actions. Do what's right.
• Ready to Learn: Learn every day, be prepared, and stay focused.
• Leaders: Lead the next chapter.

Daily Uniform & Dress Code Guidelines

When does the school uniform policy go into effect?

Students are encouraged to wear school uniforms starting on the first day of school.

What is the official uniform dress code for students?

Uniform tops are assigned by cohort grade level, while bottoms are universal:

Grade Level	Cohort	Assigned Polo Shirt Color
Freshmen	Cohort 2030	Gray
Sophomores	Cohort 2029	Black
Juniors	Cohort 2028	Navy Blue
Seniors	Cohort 2027	Royal Blue

Are head coverings or face masks permitted?

No. For the safety, respect, and learning environment of all students and staff, bonnets, do-rags and ski masks are strictly NOT permitted on campus.

What are the policies on personal electronic devices?

Personal electronic devices are not permitted during instructional time to ensure students remain fully focused on learning.

Will there be opportunities for students to wear non-uniform clothes?

Yes! We celebrate student goals and school culture with themed dress days every week:

• College Bound & Career Thursdays: Represent your favorite college, university, or the career field you aspire to pursue!
• School Spirit Fridays: Wear official school gear or show off your Bulldog Pride in Royal Blue and White!

Purchasing Uniforms & Assistance

Where can I purchase school uniforms?

You have a few convenient options:

• Smart Tees: Offers official logoed uniform tops, blazers, Sweater vests, Oxford shirts, hoodies, plaid skirts, and pants.
• Other Retailers: Non-logoed shirts (in your cohort color) and standard bottoms may be purchased from stores such as Walmart, Old Navy, Target, or similar retailers.

What specific items are approved as part of the uniform?

• Tops: Grade-level specific colored polos. Smart Tees logoed tops, blazers, Oxford shirts, and hoodies are fully approved. Non-logoed tops in the correct cohort color from standard retailers are also permitted.
• Bottoms: Khaki, navy, black, or plaid pants or knee-length skirts, dark jeans.

What if my family needs support with purchasing uniforms?

If your family needs financial assistance with uniform purchases, please contact our school social worker directly for available resources and support.

Why Uniform Policies Matter

Why are school uniforms and safety policies strictly enforced?

The implementation of uniforms and safety guidelines at Booker T. Washington High School is rooted in research highlighting their positive impact on key areas of student success:

1. Enhanced Safety & Security: Standardized attire makes it easy for staff to identify enrolled students and spot unauthorized visitors quickly. Studies (such as research from the Institute of Education Sciences) show up to a 30% reduction in crime rates and a 25% decline in gang-related incidents in schools requiring uniforms.
2. Fostering Belonging & Unity: Uniforms level the playing field by minimizing socioeconomic visible differences and peer pressure around fashion trends. Research from the National Association of Secondary School Principals indicates that 70% of schools with uniforms report a decrease in bullying incidents.
3. Improved Learning Atmosphere: Eliminating clothing competition shifts the primary focus back to academic growth, personal achievement, and a disciplined classroom environment.