ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, Va. (ROCKTOWN NOW) – The dress code for Rockingham County Schools could be getting an update in the near future.

During the Rockingham County school board meeting Monday night, Chair Matt Cross suggested revisiting the schools’ dress code, pointing out policies that he said were outdated and unenforceable. One of those rules that caught his attention prohibits students wearing hats inside the county’s school buildings, noting that it can cause unnecessary tension between students and administrators.

“They’re just glad to see the kids come to school,” Cross said. “We’re glad to get them in here. We’re glad that they’re at school. We’re glad that they’re learning and then they have to go address the hat issue that could also make a kid a upset is because he has a hat on, and I just don’t think it’s worth a big fight anymore where we’re at.”

Tighter-fitting attire, such as yoga pants and “jeggings” (denim leggings) are also among the clothing articles prohibited in the county schools. Board member Hollie Cave said that if that were to be enforced, “more than half of the high school students would have to be sent home.”

Board member Jackie Lohr also suggested considering updates to the employee dress codes, which mandates that teachers at least dress “business casual” for work. Lohr pointed out how that could be nuanced depending on subject being taught, particularly with faculty in Career and Technical Education.

“I think if you’re teaching shop class, it would make sense to dress down a little,” Lohr said.

The Board plans to collect feedback from school employees for the student dress codes, as well as the employee dress codes that apply to administrators and teachers.

Planning RCPS’ next five years

Also at the school board meeting, superintendent Dr. Larry Shifflett laid out a comprehensive plan for the next five years.

Shiflett explained to the board that the plan is a brainstorming idea of what will be board’s legacy come the year 2029.

“When you are no longer a board member, what do you want to point to and say, I was a part of instituting that thing or building this program,” Shifflett said. “What do you want to be known for as a board member.”

Among the issues that highlight the plan include school safety, employee retention as well as student behavioral health and wellness.

Shiflett and board members hope to solicit feedback from teachers, parents and community members before drawing up a final draft of the comprehensive plan.

WSVA News Director Mario Retrosi contributed to this report.