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In this day and age, we find ourselves once again telling young women they should feel ashamed of their bodies and urging them to cover up. We seem to be sending the message that feeling confident and comfortable in their own skin is unacceptable. Heaven forbid they express their individuality through their clothing, as it might distract the boys from focusing on their studies. After all, it’s all too easy to blame a girl’s outfit for a boy’s lack of self-control. And let’s not forget, we wouldn’t want any yearbook photos to give off a “trashy” vibe; better to have them covered up, or risk others doing it for them.
This scenario recently unfolded at Bartram Trails High School, where at least 80 photos of female students were altered in the yearbook without their knowledge. Christina Langston, a spokesperson for the school district, explained that the yearbook coordinator, a teacher named Anne Irwin, decided these images did not comply with the dress code and took it upon herself to edit them. This process went unnoticed until the yearbooks were distributed. Langston stated that this kind of editing is standard practice; students who do not meet the dress code simply aren’t included in the yearbook. So, by digitally altering the photos, they were supposedly doing these students a favor? Insert major eye roll.
When we take a look at the dress code, it becomes clear that it’s a typical set of rules we see across high schools in America, and unsurprisingly, boys face far less scrutiny. The boys are told to wear pants at the waist and keep their underwear hidden, while avoiding pajama pants or overly revealing attire. A quick trim of facial hair is also on that list.
Stricter Standards for Girls
Now, let’s examine the stricter standards imposed on girls. They must avoid shoulder-baring styles like spaghetti straps and cold shoulder tops, as these could be “distracting.” Modesty is key; midriffs and cutouts are a no-go, and skirts and shorts can’t be more than four inches above the knee. They’re advised to leave revealing clothing and pajamas at home. And if you think curlers in the hair are okay, think again; they must be removed before arriving at school. Makeup should be minimal, as looking “overdone” is frowned upon. Oddly, leggings aren’t explicitly mentioned, perhaps because they fall under the category of revealing?
This double standard is evident everywhere, as girls are held to much stricter standards than boys, who are trusted to dress appropriately without the same level of scrutiny. When girls do show up in outfits deemed inappropriate, they face consequences. For instance, Riley O’Connor, a 15-year-old student, had her photo altered. She expressed to the New York Times that this sends a damaging message about body image. Interestingly, unlike the girls, the boys’ swim team appeared in Speedo suits without any editing.
Riley’s mother, Sandra, highlighted that while parents encourage their daughters to embrace their changing bodies and identities, the school is sending an opposing message that fosters confusion and insecurity. After attending a school board meeting to discuss the issue, the board acknowledged the need for a policy review and changes.
Sandra emphasized the importance of empowering girls to recognize their bodies as beautiful and to cultivate confidence. She hopes this experience will serve as a lesson for her daughter and her friends, promoting strength in unity and self-advocacy.
Time for Change
It’s time to allow our girls the freedom to wear what feels comfortable, even if it subtly emphasizes their bodies. They deserve the autonomy to dress as they wish, breaking free from outdated double standards. And let’s trust our boys to maintain their focus, even with the presence of leggings or the slightest hint of cleavage.
For further insights, check out this related blog post, which discusses the importance of body positivity. If you’re interested in the world of home insemination, make a mom is a great authority on the topic, and this resource offers excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination.
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In summary, the ongoing trend of schools enforcing strict dress codes for girls while being lenient towards boys is not only outdated but damaging. The recent incident at Bartram Trails High School highlights the necessity for change in how we approach body image and self-expression in educational environments. It’s time to encourage confidence and autonomy among young women, allowing them to embrace their identities without fear of judgment.
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