Polk Elementary School

Appropriate Attire for Changing Weather Conditions and

A Newly Adopted Dress Code Policy for the Watertown Public Schools

December 2024

Dear Watertown Public Schools Faculty, Families, and Students,

As we enter the Winter season and the weather continues to get colder over the next couple of weeks, this message contains two important updates:

1. A Reminder on Appropriate Attire for Changing Weather Conditions; and

2. Highlights from A Newly Adopted Dress Code Policy for the Watertown Public Schools

Appropriate Attire for Colder Weather

As we navigate the winter months in Connecticut, I want to remind families that cold weather is a typical aspect of living in the Northeast. To ensure that all students can fully enjoy outdoor recess and cooler temps in some areas of the school building, it is essential that students PK-12 are dressed appropriately for the season. This includes wearing winter coats, hats, gloves, ear warmers, and additional layers when necessary.

It is the responsibility of parents and guardians to equip their children with suitable winter attire, while it is the students' responsibility to wear these items during outdoor recess. The Watertown Public Schools recognize the significance of outdoor recess/ outdoor break times for students and aim to provide daily opportunities K-5 for them to experience fresh air and engage in physical activity. Outdoor recess is a vital component of the K-5 school day and is not optional. In addition, 6-12, students may have opportunities to be outside for class activities or during cafeteria time (WHS) so it is just as important that our older students are equipped with winter gear as well.

And of course, if there is inclement weather, recess will be held indoors.

We appreciate your cooperation in ensuring that all students remain safe, comfortable, and ready to enjoy their time outside this winter!

NEW! Dress Code Policy

At a regularly scheduled Board of Education meeting on December 9, 2024, significant changes were made to the Watertown Public Schools Dress Code Policy. I would like to bring the attention of families, students, and faculty to important highlights outlined in this new policy.

It is imperative that the school district, families, and faculty work collaboratively to ensure a safe and smooth roll out of these new dress code expectations. To state simply, the WPS is focused on ensuring, but not limited to: (1) student safety; (2) student academic achievement; (3) student social and emotional wellbeing; and (3) a school environment that is focused on the success of each individual child. To ensure effective and equitable enforcement of this dress code, school staff shall apply the dress code consistently and in a manner that does not reinforce or increase marginalization or oppression of any group based on race, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, cultural observance, household income or body type/size.

The new Dress Code Policy now includes three notable additions:

1. A statement on district expectations and the overall philosophy of how student dress can impact student’s learning, self-esteem, and self-image. WPS believes in promoting positive body image and does not condone any type of body shaming or dress/body discrimination.

2. A clear description of specific articles of clothing that are or are not acceptable to be worn at school.

   Please click here for a comprehensive list that clearly outlines the following articles of clothing that should not be worn at school:

   As an example:

   • Any top that bares the abdomen (e.g. crop tops, etc); strapless tube tops. 

   • Any clothing that reveals visible undergarments 

   • Clothing, including gang identifiers, must not threaten the health or safety of any other student or staff.

   • etc. Click the link for a full list.

   3. The new Dress Code Policy now contains consequences that may include progressive discipline, consistent with the district's overall discipline plan. No student is to be disproportionately affected by dress code enforcement because of gender, race, body size or body maturity. However, it is important to note that it is the responsibility of parents to ensure that their children's dress conforms to requirements set forth below.  The health, safety and education of the child must be the concern of every parent/guardian. It is the recommendation of professional school personnel that parents/guardians hold their children to the highest standard in regards to school attire.

Powerschool Sign Off and Dress Code Implementation Reminders