University researchers face a significant obstacle when studying schools: their lives as researchers began in schools. How can researchers enter the contemporary high school and see the movement of bodies through those halls as something other than a confirmation or rejection of their own schooling experiences? What special intellectual and…

In this article, the author discusses her school's ability to retain its Latino students through a college-going culture based on non-negotiables. The School of International Business of the Kearny High School community, which is part of the San Diego Unified Schools, has flourished during its seven-year history despite constant budget uncertainty…

Describes a high school principal's efforts to establish strict dress and behavior codes for commencement participants, particularly graduates. Highlights the importance of an adequate budget, faculty preparation, guest and student speakers, personalized diplomas, music, seating, and other elements of a meaningful, decorous commencement ceremony.…

In response to problems relating to student appearance, dress, and behavior, most urban schools use various kinds of dress codes or uniforms. African-American youth experience difficulties because of a cultural heritage favoring bold designs and bright colors, efforts to compensate for low socioeconomic status, consumerist exploitation, and…

In a Sixth Circuit Court decision, Judge Harry Welford concluded that the First Amendment did not prohibit an Ohio school district from banning Marilyn Manson T-shirts under the district's constitutional authority to regulate student speech (disruptive behavior) that conflicts with its basic educational mission. (MLH)

Examines the issue of whether public school teachers may be prohibited from wearing religious apparel. Addresses the fundamental distinction between the elementary school setting and the high school setting. Claims the application of garb laws in the context of the public high schools is unconstitutional. (134 footnotes) (MLF)

Because some known gang members were wearing rosaries as gang symbols, a Texas school district told two students--who were not gang members--that they could not wear rosaries outside their shirts. A federal district court ruled (Chalifoux v. New Caney Independent School District) that the district's entire gang-apparel policy was void because of…

The Physical Education program at San Rafael High School seeks to boost students' sense of identity and self worth by abolishing rigid rules and dress codes and allowing students to choose from elective courses. The school administration has made commitments to the program and student enrollment is increasing. (SJL)

A study that included observations and interviews in street and school settings throughout California and in selected cities nationwide documented the changing nature of gang identity within the broader context of street style and adolescent expression. Suggests that targeting student behavior, as opposed to style of clothing, would be more…

Clothing is a primary form of gang-member identification. School boards that seek to revise dress-code policy on gang attire need to make certain they can justify their steps so that students' right to freedom of expression and the need for a safe school environment can coexist. Reviews five court cases and offers guidelines. (MLF)

In "Castorina," the Sixth Circuit reversed a lower court ruling that had dismissed a suit by two high school students challenging their suspension for wearing T-shirts adorned with the Confederate flag. Reviews three Supreme Court decisions about the regulation of student expression. Concludes that a consensus for the regulation of…

Examines whether schools can or should restrict gang clothing and how to restrict gang clothing without infringing on students' constitutional rights. Concludes that a policy that stresses the importance of reducing distractions that inhibit learning is more likely to be found legal than a policy restricting gang communication via limitations on…

Explains how a survey of staff, students, parents, and community members was used to develop an equitable and effective high school dress and behavior code. Describes the sanctions established for violations and a mandatory after-school instructional program for students suspended from regular classes. (Author/PGD)

Examined 10th-grade data from the 1988 National Educational Longitudinal Study to investigate the effects of school uniforms on student attendance, behavior problems, substance use, and academic achievement. Data from public, private, and Catholic schools indicated that uniforms had no direct effect on substance use, attendance, or behavior, and a…

This article addresses the democratic rhetoric taught in a Costa Rican High School and the ways in which that rhetoric clashed with school practices that revealed hierarchies based on race, ethnicity, class, and religion. This contradiction was rendered visible through student elections, the Independence Day celebration, and civic acts. Through…