Our school has a distinct Christian philosophy based on evaluating appearance by the following biblical principles: “Even in your youthfulness, be a great example of those around you in your speech, conduct, love, faith and purity” (I Timothy 4:12).  Scripture urges us not to be conformed to the world system around us or, as the Phillips’ translation says, “Don’t allow the world to squeeze you into its mold” (Romans 12:2).  A growing Christian will increase in his ability to resist the temptation to identify with all the trends and fads of an ungodly society (Romans 12:2).

Motives have a lot to do with what is right and wrong for the Christian.  Why do you dress the way you do?  Do you seek to glorify God in the way you dress?  (Colossians 3:23-25; I Corinthians 10:31).  God created men and women to be different and to look different from each other.  He desires it to be obvious from our appearance that men are men and women are women (Deuteronomy 22:5).

The Bible teaches it is a serious matter to do something that entices another to sin and thus become a stumbling block.  We should never dress in a way that draws another person into sin (I Corinthians 10:32).  A call to personal godliness mandates humility in personal adornment and dress.  Therefore, a student’s attire ought to portray a spirit of modesty.  For example, pants, shirts or dresses that are too tight, have holes in them or that are too revealing are considered immodest and improper.  Likewise, backless or strapless dresses, crop tops, short skirts and immodest swimsuits are improper.

In a practical sense, modesty includes careful grooming, neatness, and choosing appropriate dress for any given occasion or activity.  Modesty is best described as “not skin-tight”; choice of styles and material are very important.  Necklines and armholes openings are to be modest.

Emphasizing the principles of modesty and appropriateness, we expect students to give attention to the selection of clothing as a  purposeful choice to assist others morally and represent their Christian walk in a distinctive manner from the world.  We believe that a student who is neat and properly dressed will be a positive influence in helping to create an atmosphere that is conducive to learning.  We recognize the wide variety in styles of clothing make it impossible to establish rules that cover every situation.  Thus, the administration reserves the right to constantly monitor, evaluate, make decisions, and, if necessary, to modify the rules to cover the changing styles and designs of dress.  We desire that a student not seek to comply to the minimal standard, but develop the highest personal standard regarding appearance.

The standards will be observed during the school day as well as when entering and leaving campus and at all activities such as banquets, concerts, programs, baccalaureate, and graduation.

ANY STUDENT RETURNING TO CAMPUS DURING SCHOOL HOURS MUST BE IN APPROPRIATE SCHOOL DRESS THAT CONFORMS TO THIS CODE.