4-12-05 – Fashion has become a hot topic among parents and students in Howe, Texas. Monday night, they gathered for an informational meeting to discuss proposed changes to next school year’s dress code.

If it is approved by the school board, students will no longer be permitted to wear t-shirts, sweatpants, or cargo pants. All shirts must have a collar and there will be a strong focus on slacks and jeans.

School officials hope the changes will bring the student body together, saying clothing can often create differences among teens at the middle and high school levels.

"We wanted to build self-esteem, bridge socio-economic differences and improve atmosphere and thought appearance would be a good place to start," said Blake Stiles – the assistant principal at Howe High School.

Reaction to the new dress code was mixed at Monday night’s meeting. While some students and parents supported the idea, others were against it.

“Who can afford to go out and buy collared shirts? Is the school going to do it? We already pay enough in taxes,” said Karen Braswell.

School spirit will still be promoted even if the dress code is adopted and enforced. T-shirts and sweaters with a Howe Bulldog logo will be permitted.

The proposed code is modeled after changes the Gunter School District made two years ago.