ACLU Challenges School Uniform Policy in RI City

WOONSOCKET, R.I. (AP) – The American Civil Liberties Union is challenging a new dress code requirement in Woonsocket.

The policy – due to be implemented next month – requires public school students to wear black or khaki pants, maroon or gray shirts and closed-toe shoes. The only writing allowed on shirts is the
school logo.

The ACLU filed a complaint on Wednesday with the state on behalf of four parents and has asked Rhode Island's education commissioner to block the city from imposing the dress code. No date has been set for a hearing.

The ACLU says the policy is a financial burden for parents and won't do anything to improve the quality of education.

School Superintendent Robert Gerardi says many other school districts around the country have dress codes. He says many parents in Woonsocket have embraced the change.

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