New Redford Union High School dress code bans several items

It's nearly time to head back to class.  For students at Redford Union High School, this school year comes with a brand new set of rules.  It's a change in the dress code, and it's already not sitting well with parents or students.

Administrators say it is to minimize distractions, but some students told Fox 2 there could be much more to the story.

"They're trying to get rid of Detroit kids because Detroit kids come here," said Paige Wilcox.

"I don't like that idea, but it's with the school, so I guess I've got to go by it," said student Roderick Miller.

"It's sucks.  We can't wear what we want," said another student.

The new policy starts out pretty standard banning spaghetti straps, fish net stockings and plunging necklines.  This year boys have to wear belts every day, something most students and teachers like.

"I think it's kind of cool.  We won't have to see like other people's butts and like boxers when they're like falling down," said student Jacob Miller.

"Currently we're seeing lots of sagging pants, looking at a lot of boxer shorts and underwear, a lot of cleavage," said Redford Union High School Principal Judy Knockman.

"We're trying to create an environment of accountability that will help our students academically, socially and just an overall culture of accountability of appearance," said Superintendent Ron Stoneman.

However, the dress code doesn't stop there.  This year there will be no sweat pants, no flip flops and no writing of any kind on all t-shirts unless it's high school apparel or a small logo.  That means seniors can't sport their new college tees, and some parents are buying a whole new wardrobe.

"I did go out and buy school clothes and now I have to take some of them back and try to find receipts for them," said parent April Flores.

"I like my sweat pants.  I don't sag them, so why can't I wear them?  And I like my college shirts.  Why can't I support the college I'm going to next year?" Wilcox said.

"We're trying to get away from clothing that's detrimental to the educational environment," Stoneman explained.

So why are rain boots on the list?

"Specifically I may not be able to speak to that, but I think it may be hazardous for slipping and so forth within the school.  So that may be one of the circumstances related into the policy that needs to be reviewed," said Stoneman.

"We became an open district, so people from Detroit started coming, and that's the rain boots thing.  They're focusing on certain people and not on the whole school," Wilcox remarked.  "They come every day in boots and tight little clothes because they think they've got a good body, and it gets people mad because that is distractions."

The superintendent said students are not be targeted and parents were notified a month ago when the new dress code became official.

Other schools in the Redford Union district are also implementing a dress code for the upcoming school year.  Click here to read more about it, including a complete list of what is not permitted.