DISD: Uniforms would deter gangs
By TAWNELL D. HOBBS / The Dallas Morning News
DALLAS, Texas - Students could be forbidden to wear certain colors under a plan to make uniforms mandatory in all Dallas schools.
Dallas Independent School District trustees began discussions Tuesday on implementing a standardized dress code, including what colors could be worn.
Some DISD trustees think tougher dress standards will help deter problems, including gangs.
It was determined that middle school and high school students should not wear red or navy blue because of their affiliation with two rival gangs, the Bloods and Crips. Elementary students would be allowed to wear the colors.
Trustee Ron Price said he thinks standardized dress will help combat gang violence.
"I have a Crip and Blood problem," said Mr. Price, whose district encompasses South Dallas and parts of downtown. "The simple solution is khaki and white for everybody."
With board approval, the district would implement uniforms in the 2005-06 school year.
Jim Scales, DISD's deputy superintendent for administrative services, said administrators have met twice to discuss the issue and will meet again this week. He said the board could receive a proposed policy as early as next month.
Dr. Scales said all students would wear a uniform unless a student's parent or guardian objects. Current policy allows parents to object by writing a statement indicating a religious or philosophical conflict. The board determines whether the objection is valid.
In 1999, Irving ISD already required all students from Pre-K - 8th grade to wear school uniforms.