MPA Dress Code—Grades 5 - 8

The purpose behind the dress code is that students dress appropriately for the school environment and dress in such a way as to express pride in themselves and their school.

Basically, students should look neat and clean. We feel this is important because students who dress well feel better about themselves, behave better, and perform better in the classroom. Additionally, this is the students’ place of business, and there are certain expectations that exist in such an environment. We de-emphasize keeping up with the latest fashions and trying to out-do peers. We believe that the substance of a person should send a stronger message than appearance. Collegiate apparel is acceptable only for students in grade 8.

Pants, Skirts, Shorts
Navy, khaki, gray, black or olive colored pants/skirts/shorts may be worn. No short shorts or skirts, gym shorts, tennis shorts or cut-offs are allowed. Color jeans in the above colors may be worn, but blue jeans may not.

Shirts
Solid colored shirts/blouses (of any one color) must be sleeved, collared, loose-fitting and fall below the waist-line when arms are raised. Turtlenecks and mock turtlenecks are considered collars.

Shoes
Any dress shoe, sandal, or athletic shoe is acceptable. Students may not be barefoot. Heavy-duty boots (such as army boots or motorcycle boots) and athletic shoes with cleats and/or wheels are prohibited.

Sweater
All solid colored loose-fitting sweaters worn over shirts are allowed. Sweaters worn alone must be loose-fitting, sleeved, have a high neckline and fall below the belt-line when arms are raised.

Sweatshirts, Fleece Pullovers
Sweatshirts and fleece pullovers from sports teams, clubs, etc. are only allowed if they represent our school and include the MPA name and/or logo.

Additional Prohibited Clothing

1. Frayed, torn cut, ripped, dirty stained, or patched clothing;
2. Cut-offs, bathing suits, etc.;
3. Caps, hats, outside jackets and coats; and
4. Clothing that reveals bare backs, midriff, shoulders, cleavage or undergarments (i.e., bra straps, boxer shorts, etc.)

It is suggested that all student clothing be carefully marked with the owner’s name. Administration and staff reserve the right to decide what is appropriate student appearance. Students whose appearance draws undue attention or detracts from the normal routine will be asked to remedy the situation before being allowed to continue in class.

Students are warned if they do not have appropriate attire. After one infraction, students will serve a day of lunch/recess detention for each additional infraction. Continued episodes may result in a parent conference, continued detention and/or suspension.