Norwalk : School Dress Code Revised to Prohibit Gang Symbols

In an effort to curb gang activity, the Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District board has adopted a dress code forbidding any clothing identified with gangs.

The dress code singles out hair nets, bandannas, hats, spiked collars and belt buckles with gang symbols as objectionable attire. Some types of shoes could also be forbidden. Students who violate the rules can be sent home to change their clothes or be suspended. Staff members at each school will set specific rules for their campuses.

“I want to make sure that this policy is sent out by the end of this school year, so that parents will know what’s OK and what’s not OK to wear before they go out and buy school clothes,” board member Lupe Flores McClintock said.

Before Monday’s action, the district dress code had required clothing that was “neat, clean and appropriate for school activities.” The changes require that clothing also be “safe.”

“Items of dress which are known to support or encourage gang involvement, drug or alcohol use, criminal or immoral behavior, profanity, or which lack modesty are not permitted,” the revised code reads.

Under immodesty, the code specifically names halter tops, short shorts and see-through blouses as inappropriate. Jewelry can be banned for its potential to cause injury.