The following are comments delivered by Taylor at the October 11, 2023 HUSD Governing Board General Meeting
Madam President and members of the board,
I stand before you as a parent of two HUSD students, vehemently disappointed by your recent vote in the September 20th meeting.
First and foremost, a dress code bestows upon students a sense of decorum and propriety. It fosters an environment where refined apparel aligns with intellectual pursuits. By adhering to prescribed attire guidelines, students cultivate a heightened awareness of their appearance, instilling within them a respect both for themselves as well as their peers. Choice modest attire benefits the seriousness of the academic setting by creating a conducive environment for academic aspirations while simultaneously fostering a tradition of excellence.
Additionally, a dress code engenders a spirit of inclusivity by bolstering unity among students from diverse backgrounds. As we lay down appropriate clothing guidelines, we forge a shared standard which overcomes barriers of societal divisions. This unity encourages mutual admiration and appreciation, nurturing a sense of belonging to all students. Within a structured dress code, students are liberated from the pressures of fashion trends and socioeconomic disparities, allowing them to focus more intently on their educational pursuits.
Moreover, a dress code imparts essential life skills, crucial for professional success. By adhering to prescribed attire that reflects modesty, students gain invaluable insights into the professional world into which they will eventually venture; they become acquainted with the notion that first impressions are indelible, and they learn the importance of dressing appropriately in various social and vocational settings. This early exposure hones their ability to navigate societal expectations, thereby better preparing them for a future, underlined by formal occasions and professional encounters.
We must acknowledge that the efficacy of a dress code lies not merely in the establishment of boundaries, but in cultivating an atmosphere of self-expression. Contrary to popular misconceptions, a dress code need not stifle individualism; rather, it offers a canvas for creativity within specified parameters. By encouraging students to exhibit their ingenuity through subtle embellishments or personalized accessories, a dress code confers upon them a unique channel to articulate their identity while upholding collective values.
The designation of a dress code within educational institutions holds immense importance. It bolsters a sense of dignity, promoting a distinctive ambiance conducive to edification. It fosters inclusivity, dissolving social and cultural divisions and nurturing unification. It equips students with valuable life skills, paving a path toward professional success. And above all, it grants a platform for self-expression within a structured framework. The implementation of a chosen dress code is the reflection of the enduring commitment of educational institutions to cultivating well-rounded individuals who will contribute meaningfully to society.
I thank and laud Vice President Anderson for her dozens of hours of sincere research into this matter. Yet, in the face of empirical evidence, demonstration of pre-established excellence, and academic substantiation, three of you decided to reject such validations in favor of being trendy. Rather than follow the example of a vast majority of top school districts in the nation, you felt it more important to copy local districts who are, by your own words, inferior to the district which you claim to represent.
Shame on you, President Shultz. Shame on you, Ms. Reese. Shame on you, Ms. Wade. With this three-two vote, you have failed to execute the essential duty to which you were elected. The only message you have conveyed is: Higley Unified, why be better when you can just be like the rest?
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