Uniform Policy and Dress Code

Purpose:

At Venice Elementary School, we believe that highest student achievement occurs in a positive learning environment where students are safe and free of distractions. To insure that dress and grooming enhance the children's learning atmosphere, rather that detract from it, we have surveyed our families to develop a dress code based on input from the entire VES community. The result of this input has been the adoption of a mandatory school-wide uniform policy beginning in the 04-05 school year. Wearing appropriate clothing to school contributes to a climate of respect. The ability to present a neat, pleasant appearance is a career skill that will serve students well always.

Uniforms:

Our VES School Advisory Council has determined the colors and selections for our mandatory school uniforms. These uniforms can be purchased at Gulf Breeze in Venice. The local Gulf Breeze store is located at 1030 US Hwy 41 Bypass in South Venice. Their phone number is 941-488-8337. Polo shirts and T-shirts in either green or white will include our VES Little Indian logo. Green, mesh, athletic shorts with the VES logo are also available at Gulf Breeze. Khaki shorts, pants, skorts, or capris can be purchased at any department or discount store as long as they are khaki in color and do not cover the VES Little Indian logo. Shorts length should be no shorter that the tip of the student's thumbnail when his/her hand is at rest at his/her side. To address the concern of families seeking 100% cotton polo shirts, a catalog offering our shirts through Land's End is also available. Due to daily activities at recess or P.E. students should wear tennis shoes daily. Decorative socks may be worn on Fridays only. Solid colored socks should be worn with uniforms.

If you are interested in viewing the online catalog from Gulf Breeze, please visit www.4logowearables.com. The style numbers that Gulf Breeze will provide for Venice Elementary students are as follows:

G200 T-Shirts

G880B Polo Shirts

YT510 Mesh Shorts

Fridays will be a free choice day for students. It is expected on Friday's that student apparel will be appropriate for a school setting. T-shirts with references to drugs, violence, or alcohol are prohibited. Shorts' hemlines must reach to the thumbnail and should be longer than any shirt not tucked into the shorts. Bare midriffs are not allowed and appropriate undergarments should be worn. No halter-tops or spaghetti straps. Hats should be of a natural color. Hats may be worn outdoors only. No shoes without backs, high heels, sandals, or flip-flops are allowed. For safety reasons it is best if tennis shoes are worn daily.

Grooming:

Students should arrive at school physically clean. Clothes should fit properly and be in good condition. Hair should be styled so as not to block the child's vision and should not require grooming during class. Make-up or artificial nails should not be worn.

Accessories:

Dangling or hoop earrings or jewelry that could cause injury on the playground must not be worn.
Hats and caps should be removed in school buildings.

Note: Parents are asked to notify the school to request medical or religious exemptions on specific rules.