Dress Guidelines

In 2020, the San Mateo Union High School District Board of Trustees adopted a revised dress code policy (Board Policy 5132). The basic principles include:

• The student dress code should serve to support all students in developing 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:

• 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.
• Shoes must be worn at all times.
• Hats, caps and other head coverings shall not cover the face unless for religious purposes. Masks are not allowed unless for a medical purpose.
• Students CANNOT wear clothing, jewelry, and personal items (backpacks, fanny packs, gym bags, water bottles, etc.) that depict:
  • Violent language or images
  • 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
  • Images or language that create a hostile or intimidating environment based on any protected class (defined as race, ethnicity, country of origin, religion).