Dress code policy
Dress Code Reminder
School is a place for learning, safety, and respect. Students are expected to follow the WSPA dress code expectations every day.
Main Reminder
No hoods worn on the head. No ski masks. No full-face coverings.
This includes masks commonly called “Pooh Shiesty” masks, as well as any item worn in a way that covers the face or conceals a student’s identity.
Important Hat and Headgear Clarification
Students may wear hats unless their grade level has banned them.
Teachers may also ban headgear in their individual classrooms. This includes hats, hoods, bonnets, durags, caps, and other headgear if the teacher determines they are distracting, unsafe, inappropriate for the lesson, or interfere with classroom expectations.
Teachers and staff have the final say about whether an item may be worn in a classroom, hallway, or school space. Students are expected to follow the adult’s direction the first time.
Hoods Down
Hoodies may be worn, but hoods should not be worn on the head inside the building.
No Ski Masks
Students may not wear ski masks, full-face coverings, or items that hide their identity.
Hats Depend on Setting
Hats may be allowed unless banned by grade level or classroom expectations.
Student-Friendly Expectations
Do This
- Keep your hood down inside the building.
- Keep your face visible.
- Put away ski masks and full-face coverings before entering the building.
- Follow grade-level and classroom headgear expectations.
- Follow staff directions the first time.
Do Not Do This
- Do not wear hoods inside the school building.
- Do not wear ski masks or “Pooh Shiesty” masks.
- Do not cover your face to avoid being identified.
- Do not assume headgear is allowed in every grade level or classroom.
- Do not argue with staff after being redirected.
Why This Matters
Dress code expectations are not just about clothing. They help keep the building safe, clarify student identity, reduce distractions, and support a respectful learning environment.
When students follow expectations without repeated reminders, staff can focus more time on instruction, support, and positive relationships.
Policy Alignment
Students must follow WSPA expectations and staff directions. Items worn in a way that cover the face or conceal a student’s identity are not allowed.
Face and Identity
Students must keep their faces visible so staff can quickly identify them and maintain a safe school environment.
Headgear Expectations
Hats may be allowed unless banned by a grade level or teacher. Teachers and staff have final say in their assigned spaces.
Staff Response After Repeated Violations
Teachers and staff should use calm, clear, and consistent redirection. Repeated violations should be documented and followed up with contact to the parent or guardian.
1. Redirect
Remind the student to remove the hood, ski mask, face covering, or restricted headgear.
2. Document
Track repeated violations according to school procedures.
3. Contact Home
A teacher or staff member contacts a parent or guardian after repeated violations.
4. Escalate if Needed
Repeat violations may result in the student being banned from wearing the item or escalation to a Level 3 offense.
Teacher Script
“At WSPA, students are expected to keep their hoods down and keep their faces visible. Ski masks, full-face coverings, and masks commonly called Pooh Shiesty masks are not allowed during the school day. Hats may be allowed unless a grade level has banned them or a teacher has banned headgear in the classroom. Teachers and staff have the final say in their assigned spaces. If you are redirected, the expectation is that you correct it the first time. Repeated violations will lead to parent or guardian contact and may lead to further consequences.”
Quick Check for Understanding
Ask students to answer these aloud, on paper, or with a partner:
- What should students do with hoods inside the building?
- Are hats automatically banned for every student?
- Who has the final say about headgear in a classroom or school space?
- What can happen after repeated violations?
Teacher note: Listen for these key ideas: hoods stay down, hats are not automatically banned everywhere, staff have the final say in assigned spaces, and repeated violations may lead to parent contact or additional consequences.
Closing Reminder
Keep your hood down. Keep your face visible. Follow grade-level, classroom, and staff directions the first time.
Rooted in Excellence, Growing Toward Greatness!
Safe choices, visible faces, respectful responses, and Phoenix Pride.
