School Uniforms 2009-10

St. Madeleine Sophie Catholic School requires a complete student uniform in good, clean condition to be worn at all times. Any exceptions are determined by the Principal on designated “Non Uniform Dress Days”*. These uniforms contribute to the school’s sense of pride and harmony and are a tradition of Catholic schools.

Included in that tradition is a climate of values which stresses personal respect and dignity, care for others, and the pursuit of academic excellence. Student dress should be consistent with these values and the stated goals of the school. To this end, any attire or appearance that is seen as disruptive to the learning environment, contrary to stated values, or presenting a safety hazard, is not appropriate. In short, students at St. Madeleine Sophie School should appear neat, clean, and modest in dress. Parent and student support of these standards is seen as most important to maintaining an acceptable norm of school dress and in helping promote a positive learning environment.

Following are the acceptable guidelines for each part of the uniform for the Lower School, Grades PK-3, and for the Upper School, Grades 4-8. Note that the two uniform options are not identical and that certain parts of the uniform must be purchased through the Dennis Uniform Store or the school’s uniform exchange.

 

Note: Khaki-colored apparel and navy knit shirts for boys or girls are Grade 4-8 options only.

REGULATION articles are defined as appearing identical to items purchased directly from our uniform supplier. For instance, PANTS purchased anywhere other than the Dennis Uniform Store are an acceptable part of our uniform only as long as they conform to the Dennis design (e.g., straight leg, no rivets, cargo pockets or contrasting stitching). Waist and length cut must be uniform style.) Dockers-brand pants for Upper School students meeting the accepted style may be purchased wherever they are sold but must be of identical style and color.

SWEATSHIRTS and FLEECES are pre-ordered only through the Uniform Store.

 

ALL STUDENTS

• On days when the student body will meet in formal assembly (e.g. Mass, etc.) a uniform sweater or sweatshirt should be worn. These days will be pre-announced.

• Clothing should fit properly and be clean. It must not be torn, shredded, written or drawn upon.

• Shirts must be tucked in at all times.

• Capri-style pants and leggings are not considered uniform regulation.

• No colored or printed tee shirts may be worn under the uniform shirt or blouse.

• Shoes must be in good, clean condition and always fastened or tied. For safety reasons, shoes with open toes, open heels, slippery soles and sandals are not permitted.

• Plain navy, brown or black belts are permitted with the uniform.

• Jeans or sweatpants may not be substituted for uniform pants in an emergency.

• Blouses, shirts or turtlenecks must be worn under sweaters or sweatshirts.

• Socks and/or tights are required at all times. They must coordinate appropriately with the uniform and should be visible above the cut of the shoe. They must be a solid color (blue, white or red).

• Hats, bandanas, coats or non-uniform sweatshirts may not be worn inside the school buildings or church. Sunglasses or other eye protection needed for a medical condition must be approved through a physician’s note.

• Hair ribbons, ties, bows and clips must stay within the school’s color scheme.

• Hairstyles, make-up and accessories should be moderate and appropriate for school.

• Jewelry should be unobtrusive (no large hoop earrings, large chains, etc.) to prevent injury during the school day.

When in doubt, clothing and accessories should always be brought to the school office for pre-approval. Requests for waivers to any of the above due to medical concerns must be accompanied by a physician’s note.

* NON-UNIFORM DRESS DAYS

On days designated non-uniform or free dress, clothing should fit properly, be clean and free of inappropriate pictures or wording. Jeans or shorts should not be torn, shredded or drawn upon. The length of the shorts should be to mid-thigh. Tank tops, open toe shoes or sandals are not permitted. St. Madeleine Sophie parish sponsored scout troops may wear their uniform on day of meetings.

All school staff assist in monitoring student appearance. In the majority of instances, questions are handled at the classroom level. In any debatable or recurring situation, the final judgment will be made by the school administration. Students not properly attired or groomed may be sent to the office for alternatively supplied clothing. In habitual situations, a student may be sent home and any school time lost can be required to be made up.