"It is not the intention of this policy to abridge the rights of students to express political, religious, philosophical, or similar opinions by wearing apparel on which messages are stated. Such messages are acceptable as long as they are not lewd, vulgar, obscene, defamatory, profane or do not advocate violence or harassment against others," the H-BC policy states.
When the code in Luverne was in question, Jauert talked to students and pitched the modified dress code to LHS Principal Gary Fisher, who said he thought it was reasonable for students to follow.
Fisher said the school has had few problems with students, but notes that changing fashion trends have made undefined areas in the codes more obvious.
"We have to remember that this isnÕt a fashion show; it's a school," Fisher said.
Room for expression
Girls following fads like wearing thong underwear at a higher level than their pant waists, to Fisher, cause more of a disruption in the classroom.
But having said that, he also wants students to be able to show their personality and individual style through their clothing.
"There are limits to what we want to do," Fisher said. "They can be able to express themselves, but not at a cost to someone else. Everyone has a right to be there too."
Fisher said inappropriate dress hasn't been a huge issue for the school. Usually, a quick word with a student or talk with parents takes care of small problems before detention is needed.
"We have a good relationship with the kids," Fisher said. "We donÕt want to make it something to fight about."
The best testament to Luverne's students cooperating with current rules, Fisher said, is that the student handbook hasn't needed updating for five years.
He commended Jauert and the Student Council for taking the dress code on as something to work toward.
"They know that wants are different from working for a goal," Fisher said.
Above, Lexi Jauert and Abby Klosterbuer model what should not be worn to school.