Leggings, athletic shorts allowed for middle, high school students at Hickory schools in NC

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According to Hickory Daily Record, Hickory City Schools has updated its dress code for middle and high school students, allowing more flexibility in clothing choices.

Students in grades six through twelve can now wear leggings, cargo pants, and athletic shorts, as long as shorts reach mid-thigh.

Superintendent Jennifer Griffin explained the change comes after numerous dress code violations and concerns from parents. "Athleisure wear is now standard," she said, pointing out that addressing these issues was becoming more disruptive than the clothing itself.

Previously, leggings were only allowed under other bottoms, and athletic shorts were restricted to PE classes. These rules have now been loosened to reflect more common clothing styles.

Board member Amanda McGuire raised the issue of shorter shorts, arguing that it’s difficult to find clothes for teenage girls that meet the old rule of two inches above the knee. As a result, the new policy permits shorts that fall at mid-thigh.

In addition, Hickory schools received mixed performance ratings from the state, with two schools earning B’s, two C’s, and five D’s. Despite some challenges, there were positive gains in early reading levels and improvements in several grades’ math and reading scores.

What are your thoughts on the updated dress code? Do you think it reflects current fashion trends?