All bottom wear must be dress or casual style of corduroy, cotton, twill, or wool material. Bottom wear must be long enough to reach the crease of the knee. For female students, any slits must not extend more than three inches from the hem. All bottom wear must be worn securely around the waist with a belt (if the item has belt loops). Belts may be leather or fabric but must have a plain buckle. Unacceptable items include (but are not limited to): cargo pants, overalls, large bell-bottoms, jogging pants, polyester, nylon, parachute cloth, spandex, leather, suede, velour, and tight stretch pants.

Top Wear (waist and above)
shirts

All shirts must have sleeves and either a standard, turtleneck, or mock turtleneck collar. All shirts must be tucked in so that the belt (or waistline) is clearly visible all the way around. If the item is button-up, it must be buttoned to the base of the neck. If one shirt is worn over another, both must be tucked in. Unacceptable items include (but are not limited to): items that will not stay tucked in, items with a low neckline, and see-through type materials.

Dresses

For female students, dresses are acceptable if they meet the guidelines for both bottom and top wear.

Sweaters, Vests, Anoraks, and Pullovers

Any item worn over dress top wear must allow the collar to show. Also, no hooded items are allowed.

Shoes

Shoes must be leather, suede, or athletic and must have a closed toe.

Coats and Jackets
(includes winter, heavy, and long coats)

Any coat or jacket must be removed and stored in a locker once the student arrives in the school building. No long or trench coats are allowed at all.

Headwear

All headwear for both male and female students must be removed and stored in a locker once the student arrives in the school building. Any student with headwear (worn or not) during the school day will have the item confiscated.

Piercing

Visible body piercing will only be allowed in the ear.

Special Situations

If a student cannot comply with the standardized dress code based on religious beliefs or a vertical disability, a parent or guardian may write a letter explaining the situation to the Director of Schools with a copy to the school principals. Each case will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Additional Information

The principals, designated by the Board of Education as the educational leaders of Cleveland High School and Cleveland Middle School, are generally responsible for the attitude, manners, and conduct of the students and staff. Therefore, the principals, subject to confirmation by the Director of Schools and the Board of Education, have specific authority to determine a standard of dress and good grooming that will be compatible with a wholesome school situation. All students are expected to adhere to common practices of modesty, cleanliness and neatness; to dress in conformity with the accepted standards of the community; and to contribute in such manner to the academic atmosphere, not detract from it. No attempt will be made to dictate fashion styles so long as they are in keeping with Cleveland City Schools' policies. It should be noted, however, that it is the responsibility of the student and parent to adhere to the Dress Code. The Administrators of Cleveland High School and Cleveland Middle School shall have the right to appraise any current fashion or fad and determine whether or not it is appropriate for school. Fashions that the principals deem a distraction to the educational process will not be allowed.