Did This Principal Go Too Far on Prom Night Dress Code?

By SheSpeaksTeam Mar 10, 2020

As prom season fast approaches, we are bound to hear stories of schools taking dress code regluations to the next level. And “outrageous” is exactly what many parents and students felt after receiving a text message from their principal saying she would have to see a picture of each female student in their dress before they would be allowed to make the purchase and wear it to prom.

Today reports about the Shreveport, Louisiana principal Kim Pendleton who sent out a text message to her high school’s message alert system informing students that each dress would have to be pre-approved by her via photo of the student wearing the dress. She also sent out specific dress code regulations. The text reads, “As you begin shopping for your attire, please make sure you do not purchase any clothes that are sheer or revealing in any manner. Also, make sure we do not see excess cleavage or skin.”

Pendelton goes on instructing each and every female student and dates that are coming from other schools how they will need to go through the pre-approval process before making any purchases. Pendelton writes, “Prior to purchasing an outfit, I will need you to send me a picture of you in the outfit with your name and grade. Once I approve the outfit, you may purchase it. The approved outfit is the only one you will be allowed to wear to prom.”

After receiving backlash from parents, Pendelton later withdrew the “pre-approval” process, but she still believes it can be a benefit to parents who are unsure which dress is appropriate. Pendelton insists, “We still have families who have approached staff to ask for advice on whether their dresses would meet the guidelines. To date, we have not denied any students’ attire and instead have received positive feedback from our parents who are proud of the school for taking a stand to ensure prom is an encouraging, wholesome event.”

What do you think of this principal requiring students to send pics of themselves in prom dresses before being approved to wear?

Do you think there should be a dress code when it comes to prom night?

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Comments

by Sociallyt | JEANNETTE, PA

Jun 29, 2020

The principle is out of line. Girls wait a life time for this event and how each girl chooses to dress and represent herself is an extension of her fashion freedom at this coming of age. I get tired of hearing that cleavage is inappropriate. It's a part of our beautiful bodies. Some feel more confident to reveal while others to not. Some cultures have duffereing opinions as so families. These women she be given a few final hours to decorate themselves in a way they please. It won't cause the world to end or anyone to gouge their eyes out. Let them be to fight it out with a parent alone. We want wholesome kids and wish to define what that is by the amount t if coverage a dress has?

by Natwit1 | WAYNESVILLE, MO

Jun 23, 2020

As a high school administrator, I do believe that there is a need for clear guidelines for dress code and behavior expectations at prom. However, as my school has a couple of thousand kids eligible for prom, I do not see the practicality in requiring pictures before they show up. Just check them at the door and send them home if they violate it.

by RebeccaE | Miami, FL

Jun 23, 2020

I do believe that there should be a dress code. Sometimes some students go over board when it comes to chosing a dress. Sometimes it can be too short or can be too revealing. Some students still need to remember that prom is a school event and persons should dress appropriately. Asking for each student to send a picture of their prom dress is a little to extreme in my point.

by A1tester | Waynesboro, TN

May 15, 2020

I dont think it's a bad idea. High girls at that age need guidance what looks good and what's not appropriate!

by Leinasays | WAIPAHU, HI

Apr 15, 2020

I think the dress is beautiful. Though, nowadays people do dress to impress at prom

by Leinasays | WAIPAHU, HI

Apr 15, 2020

I think the dress is beautiful. Though, nowadays people do dress to impress at prom

by nitivachhani | Fremont, CA

Mar 31, 2020

Whoa.. this is insane..

by Lingbee | PARKLAND, FL

Mar 24, 2020

I agree with a dress code in schools. However, sending in photos for approval is over the top. Just publish a clear defination of what the dress code is and move on.

by Momfun | Woodbury, MN

Mar 14, 2020

She was right about how kids dress these days

by luvs2travel | Unsubscribe, NY

Mar 12, 2020

Unfortunately it has come to this. Yes I do think there should be a dress code. There is nothing unreasonable in the principal's request.