At Jackson-Reed, most students understand that dress codes are unconventional. Students have the opportunity to arrive at school in any clothing of their choice, allowing them to display their unique personalities amongst their peers. A variety of outfits are shown in the halls each day, ranging from pajama pants to crop tops, Nike techs to skirts, and of course, the JROTC uniform. Having a loose dress code clearly benefits JR, as it allows students to express themselves and feel comfortable during class. 

Many schools in the DC area enforce strict dress codes that instigate fear in students through severe punishments. Private schools send their students to detention or even suspension for disobeying the dress code. Students who attend uniformed schools with a dress code are often seen wearing sweatpants under their uniforms, revealing students’ desire to wear comfortable clothing at school. Many students might feel insecure in a skirt seven hours a day in an academic environment, so having a more relaxed dress code can allow students to wear what makes them feel more secure. 

While many people, especially teachers and parents, might believe that having a loose dress code can cause students to take advantage of the freedom and dress inappropriately, having a uniform can make students feel repressed. Sophia Harper, a junior at JR and former student at St. John’s College High School remembers how she would not feel dressed appropriately for the winter because SJC prohibits girls from wearing sweatpants under their skirts.

Without a limiting dress code at JR, students of all genders are given the opportunity to express themselves through clothing. The dress code does not only apply to clothes, as pupils at JR have the freedom to dye their hair and wear any sort of jewelry, makeup, piercings, and shoes they would like. Jackson-Reed’s loose dress code creates an environment for each student to show who they are and form connections with other students through their style.