The Virginia Board of Education's "Student Conduct Policy Guidelines" were first developed in 1994 in response to action by the 1993 General Assembly requiring the Virginia Board of Education to establish such guidelines. In 2004, the "Guidelines" underwent a major revision in response to requirements of § 22.1-279.6. of the…

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.…

Based on past incidents involving racial tension and student wearing apparel that displayed the Confederate flag, a South Carolina middle school prohibited clothing with the Confederate flag visible. Judge William B. Traxler Jr. ruled for the district. Advises administrators that they can regulate or ban expressive conduct by students only if…

Most of the data on the outcomes and effects of school uniforms come from elementary and middle schools. In many cases, school uniforms are only one part of an overall reform effort. More research is needed. Offers suggestions to help schools work on developing school-uniform policies and summarizes the legal view. (15 references) (MLF)

Examines a U.S. Supreme Court decision upholding the Bethel, Washington, school district in disciplining a student for giving a sexually provocative speech. Cautions against a possible trend toward renewed school emphasis on dress codes and other issues of decorum. (IW)

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…