Kelsy McClain
Shoes are a concern with the updated dress code. Sneakers are fine, but flip flops, slides, and sandals have been banned.
As the school year begins at Torrington High School, students are adjusting to a new dress code adopted by the Board of Education in April 2025. The policy was introduced following staff requests for clearer standards, with the stated goal of maintaining a safe and stable learning environment.
The new rules prohibit crop tops and shirts that expose the chest, stomach, or shoulders; transparent or mesh clothing; clothing that reveals the upper thigh or undergarments; tights unless covered by another garment (yoga pants are permitted); pajamas; sagging pants; and headwear that conceals a student’s identity. Footwear such as flip-flops, sports sandals, and slippers is not allowed, though closed-toe Crocs are permitted.
Disciplinary action for violations ranges from a warning and the option to change attire on a first offense to in-school suspension (ISS) for repeat offenses. Chronic non-compliance may result in further disciplinary measures.
Reactions among students have been mixed. THS Junior Johanna Stolfi thinks, “The pajama pants and slides are valid because people don’t look professional.”
Other expressed frustration with restrictions on common clothing items, including hats and certain tops. Some noted concerns that enforcement disrupts class time and disproportionately affects girls. Senior Sophia Pergola, among the first cited under the policy, explained that students without access to alternate clothing may be required to remain in ISS for the remainder of the day.
An anonymous student at THS thinks this is a big issue with gender expectations. The focus on “upper thighs,” “chest,” and “shoulders” in the first line item feels to this student that girls are being targeted.
Teachers also hold differing perspectives. Some emphasized the safety benefits of banning flip-flops on stairwells, while also acknowledging that students feel their ability to express themselves has been limited. Others noted that portions of the policy may be “a little excessive,” pointing out that teachers are facing similar restrictions under a proposed staff dress code.
As enforcement continues, both students and staff will be watching closely to see how the policy shapes the school environment in the months ahead.