Dress Code Debate At Tuscola High

HAYWOOD COUNTY, N.C. -- Seniors at Tuscola High School in Haywood County will have a new dress code during graduation.

School leaders say they want to bring back more dignity to the ceremony and match a dress code already in place for Pisgah High.

"You don't want to be distracted by unusual sights or sounds or beach balls bouncing around or maraca bands playing in the stands which unfortunately we've had before," says Associate Superintendent Dr. Bill Nolte.

Tuscola's principal Travis Collins is requiring a white shirt, tie and dress pants are for young men. Young women must wear a black dress or black skirt and top. No patches or other items will be allowed on caps or gowns.

Many parents agree with the change.

"The dress code certainly sounds very reasonable and appropriate to the event," says Tuscola parent Mary Earnest.

Summer Case has kids at Pisgah High.

"You're getting ready to go out and get a job and show the world what you've become," Case said. "And if you can't dress appropriately for something like graduation, what's it going to show that you can do for the rest of your life?"

But some parents calling themselves, "Concerned Parents of Tuscola High," say it's too intrusive, saying the school is acting like a "socialist" state, wondering if their kids are being "bullied."

"I've not heard any comments at all," Nolte said.

"Biggest thing for me are the hats. I just wish they could do that," says Tuscola sophomore Tom Hines. "I feel like you can't really have as much personality in it," he says, adding, "I wish they could decorate the hats because you know my sister did it and she has it on her wall. It's just kind of something that you can remember about high school."

School leaders say if cost is an issue for any families, arrangements can be made. They say if seniors don't comply with the dress code, they may not participate in the ceremony, but they will graduate.

Graduation is June 9.


By Rex Hodge
Follow Rex on Twitter @RexHodgeWLOS

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