TYLER, Texas – The Tyler Independent School District Board of Trustees officially approved significant revisions to the district's student dress code at its meeting on April 16, setting new guidelines that will take effect July 1 for the upcoming 2024-2025 academic year. The changes primarily focus on gender-neutral language and updated regulations for hoodies.
Under the new policy, gender-specific language has been removed from clothing descriptions. Terms like "slacks or trousers" have been replaced with the singular "pants," applicable to all students. Shorts are now explicitly permitted for all students, as are skirts, dresses, and jumpers, all referred to in gender-neutral terms.
A notable modification affects the wearing of hoodies. While students in grades Kindergarten through 6th will continue to be prohibited from wearing hoodies indoors during instructional time, students in grades 7-12 will now be permitted to wear them indoors. This marks a shift from the previous restriction that applied to all K-12 students.
Certain existing prohibitions remain in place. The dress code will continue to ban athletic pants, sweatpants, and yoga pants. Ripped jeans are still not allowed, and sagging pants will remain a violation of district policy.
Tyler ISD officials stated the revisions aim to promote equity and inclusivity among the student body, enhance student comfort, and allow them to focus on learning. The district also noted the changes are intended to simplify enforcement for staff and reflect current fashion trends. The comprehensive review process spanned several months, involving input from committees, parents, students, and staff members.
The updated Board Policy incorporating these changes will be officially published and effective on July 1. Details of the new dress code will be available on the Tyler ISD's official website, tylerisd.org, under the Board Policy section.
