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Dress Code

Students identified as affiliated (gang) prior to coming to PHS, will not be able to wear clothing that is known to be affiliated with those groups (Board Policy). Clothing worn by students in violation of SMUHSD policy, will be brought to administration, and asked to remove or change it. If students under these restrictions cannot change, they may be sent home to change before they can return to classes at school

Below you will find resources that the San Mateo Union High School District has made available for the updated student dress code. 

Administrative Regulations 5132

Board Policy 5132

Updated dress code recap: English | Spanish | Chinese

 

Dress Code

The San Mateo Union High School District Board of Trustees adopted dress code that includes these basic principles:

  • The student dress code should serve to support all students to develop a body-positive self-image.
  • All students are encouraged to dress in a manner that is comfortable and conducive to an active school day and allows them to express their self-identified gender.
  • Students should be able to wear clothing without fear of or actual unnecessary discipline or body shaming. 

The following guidelines shall apply to all regular school activities:

1. Clothes shall be sufficient to conceal undergarments. Shirts or tops must be worn at all times and must cover the back, front and sides of the torso.

2. Shoes must be worn at all times.

3. Hats, caps and other head coverings shall not cover the face unless for religious purposes. Masks are not allowed unless for a medical purpose.

4. Students CANNOT Wear Clothing, jewelry and personal items (backpacks, fanny packs, gym bags, water bottles etc.) that depict:

a. Violent language or images

b. Images or language depicting drugs, alcohol, tobacco, nicotine, e-cigarette or vaping, hate speech, profanity, pornography (or any illegal item or activity) or the use of the same

c. Images or language that create a hostile or intimidating environment based on any protected class (defined as race, ethnicity, country of origin, religion).

 

Consequences

(Note: Failure to follow dress code may require student to wear school-provided tops including shirts/sweatshirts, and/or other disciplinary consequences)

  • 1st Offense: warning, parent/guardian notified, change of clothes
  • 2nd Offense: warning, parent/guardian notified, change of clothes, 1 week of community service, wellness counselor referral made
  • 3rd Offense: Friday detention, parent/guardian notified
  • 4th Offense: ATS assigned, mandatory parent meeting