Las Cruces Schools Seek Public Input on Proposed Student Dress Policy Changes

LAS CRUCES – Las Cruces Public Schools is asking parents, students, staff and community members to weigh in on proposed changes to the district’s student dress policy.

The Las Cruces Board of Education reviewed proposed revisions to Policy JICA, Student Dress, during a June 2 work session. District officials said the proposed changes are intended to clarify expectations for student attire while supporting a safe, respectful and inclusive learning environment.

According to LCPS, the revised policy emphasizes that students should be able to express their individuality through clothing, hairstyles and personal appearance without unnecessary discipline or body shaming. The proposal also says dress code enforcement should not be applied more strictly based on race, ethnicity, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, cultural or religious identity, household income, body size or body maturity.

The proposed policy would still prohibit clothing, jewelry or personal items that are pornographic, contain threats, promote illegal or violent conduct, display hate speech, show private body parts, cover a student’s face so they cannot be identified, or demonstrate gang association.

The policy also allows schools to set additional attire requirements when needed for safety in certain academic settings, including physical education, science labs, career technical education courses, swimming, gymnastics, spirit weeks or other school activities.

Schools with existing uniform policies would be allowed to continue those policies, as long as they are gender neutral and inclusive of attire worn for religious reasons.

LCPS scheduled four virtual feedback sessions by high school feeder pattern. The Centennial session is set for Monday, June 8, from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m., followed by the Las Cruces High session from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. The Mayfield session is scheduled for Tuesday, June 9, from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m., followed by the Organ Mountain session from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m.

Community members may also submit feedback by emailing input@lcps.net. Comments must be received by 5 p.m. Thursday, June 11.

District officials said the feedback will be shared with the Board of Education before possible approval of the policy changes.