I started to develop a self-described sense of alternative fashion in my late sophomore year. Disappointingly however, beanies are are banned under the catagory of “head coverings” in the dress code. Many people agree with the traditional belief that non-religious head coverings worn indoors are a symbol of disrespect, especially in a place of professional nature. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, but by that same token everyone is entitled to their own style of dress. So for what reason does the dress code really ban beanies? Simple answer: Administrative bias.

While public schools cannot directly censor students, they can enforce a dress code under school policy. Each article of clothing disallowed in a school’s dress code usually corresponds with a reason as to why; for example, the dress code bans any article of clothing with paraphernalia due to its harmful implications. Making the exception for documented head coverings worn for religious reasons, the dress code claims that all other head coverings are a learning enviroment disruption and a threat to school safety. I really don’t see how beanies could disrupt a learning enviroment; however, with the alarming rise of school intrusions in recent years, I would agree with the latter in the case of head coverings that obscure the face of the wearer, such as hoods; that is, if they weren’t allowed during passing periods — an exception completely unacknowledged by the student handbook. A hooded individual is allowed to roam the halls, but students wearing a beanie are told to take them off. Furthermore, there are a  pleathora of other places student’s could conceal contraband on them, without any form of head covering. 

Both of the handbook’s claims fall apart on their own, and I believe they’re only written in to the dress code to allow staff and administration who believe school is professional enviroment to enforce it. Wearing a beanie is harmless. So when I’m given the side eye walking down the halls while the kid next to me walks into the bathroom hooded, I can’t help but feel confused as to why this is even a debate in the modern age of diverse dress among students. Beanies should be written out of the school dress code.