Whitewater Times

The Watertown Unified School District has updated its student Dress and Grooming Policy, Board Policy 5511, which will take effect for the 2025-2026 school year. The revised policy was adopted by the Board of Education on July 28, 2025.

According to the district, the new guidelines aim to balance personal expression with maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment. The policy outlines several key expectations for student attire during school hours and at school-sponsored events.

Among the requirements, clothing must cover all private body parts and undergarments. Students are not allowed to wear tops that leave gaps between tops and bottoms, nor spaghetti straps, strapless tops, or sleeveless undershirts known as a-shirts. Hats and hoods are generally prohibited during school hours except for religious, health, safety, or sensory sensitivity reasons. Face coverings—including sunglasses—are also not permitted unless needed for religious purposes or documented disabilities; transition lenses are an exception.

The dress code further states that ripped or see-through clothing must be worn with an additional layer underneath. Any words or images displayed on clothing must not be obscene, vulgar, or promote illegal activities or violence. Shorts and skirts must have a bottom hem that reaches at least fingertip length when arms are straight while standing.

A full version of the updated policy is available in Student Handbooks and on the district’s website at https://go.boarddocs.com/wi/watertown/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=DKGHNU49511C .

In terms of enforcement, staff will ask students who do not meet dress code standards to adjust their attire or change into clothing provided by the school. If this is not possible or if students choose not to comply, families will be contacted either to bring appropriate clothing to school or pick up their child so they can return once dressed according to policy.

"We appreciate your partnership in helping students arrive at school dressed for success and ready to learn. Please review these guidelines with your student before the start of the school year to ensure a smooth transition and thank you for your continued support in fostering a positive learning environment," said district officials.