The dress code at Wilkes-Barre Academy was originally established by the parent/faculty committee and promotes a focused and respectful learning environment.
A school uniform can help students in several practical and social ways: Encourages professionalism and discipline Some people believe uniforms help students develop habits of neatness, responsibility, and dressing appropriately for different settings. Creates equality Uniforms can lessen visible differences in family income, which may reduce pressure to wear expensive clothes. Builds school identity Wearing the same uniform can create a sense of belonging, teamwork, and pride in the school community. Improves safety and security It’s easier for staff to identify students on campus and notice outsiders who do not belong. Saves time in the morning Students do not need to decide what to wear each day, which can make mornings easier.
Compliance with the uniform policy is required. Designated attire can be purchased through Flynn & O’Hara. For more information or to make a purchase, click the logo below to visit their website.
Guidelines :
When wearing the school uniform, the following guidelines will be required :
Shirts: All shirts must be tucked into shorts, pants, skirts, or skorts to maintain a tidy appearance. (Belts required for shorts and pants.)
Shorts: Shorts may only be worn from the first week of school through October 31 and again starting April 1. Shorts may not be worn between November 1 and April 1. (Remember any style sneaker is permitted when wearing shorts.)
Skorts: While skorts may be worn year round, they also follow the short guidelines when it comes to wearing sneakers. Sneakers may be worn with skorts from the first week of school through October 31 and again starting April 1. Between November 1 and April 1, skorts are permitted but with a dress shoe and appropriate matching sock, knee high or tights. No sport socks permitted.
Belts: Brown, tan, or black belts are required with pants or shorts.
Shoes & Socks: Dress shoes must be black or brown; saddle shoes are allowed.
No boots (Uggs, rain boots, hiking boots, etc.) are permitted. Heels may not exceed 1.5 inches.
Sneakers are allowed only with shorts or skorts during permitted months (April 1–October 31). Sneakers or sandals may be worn only with shorts or skorts during the same period.
Socks, tights, or knee socks must be white, gray, or burgundy. Tan socks may be worn only with long pants. Sneaker socks may only be worn with sneakers. Knee socks and tights must be solid or geometric (striped, argyle, etc.). Characters/images are allowed only on designated “silly sock” days for K-4th Grades Only.
Gym Uniforms: Gym uniforms and sneakers or your choice must be worn on gym days. Gym shorts may only be worn during months when shorts are permitted and must reach two inches above the knee. 5-8th students are permitted to wear 1/4 zip pullover if replacing sweatshirt in the colder months. May not be worn all school year. School club/activity T-shirts (Glee Club, Science Olympiad, Winter Follies, Ski Club) may be worn on gym days as long as they are school colors and approved.
No writing on shirtsother than WBA
Pants may not be cut, torn, or shredded.
Tops may not be tied or banded.
Outerwear: Jackets, hats, bandanas, and non-uniform outerwear (including gym sweatshirts, hoodies, or zip-up fleeces) are not permitted in the building. School uniform cardigans, sweaters, and vests may be worn inside.
Hair & Makeup: No theatrical, distracting, or unnatural hair colors or styles (e.g., Mohawks, bright pink, blue, red) are allowed.
Jewelry & Accessories: No hanging chains, jewelry, pins, badges, or accessories that hang outside the uniform or pose safety concerns.
Piercings: Only ear piercings are allowed.
Tattoos & Body Art: No temporary sticker or permanent tattoos, writing, or artwork on skin is permitted.
Distractions: Any clothing or items that distract from classroom safety or learning are prohibited.
Uniform Fit: Shorts, skorts, and skirts should remain two inches above the knee. May only be hemmed if too long because of the fit. If these items are too short, parent will be informed to purchase a more appropriate length in order to follow these dress code guidelines.
Dress Down Days :
Dress Down Days are privileges and may be revoked if students do not dress appropriately.
No revealing clothing: Spaghetti straps, cropped tops, bare backs, exposed bellies, or bare chests are not allowed.
Skirts and shorts: Must be two inches above the knee; capris are permitted.
Appropriate tops: No shirts with offensive language, inappropriate images, or references to musical groups/artists.
Clothing condition: No ripped, torn, or cut clothing is allowed.
Pajamas: Pajama bottoms or pajama-like clothing are not permitted. (Students may bring pajama bottoms or sweatpants for recess during winter.)
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