Dress Policy
"The Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board: Mandatory School Uniform/Elementary" Policy took effect September 2004, click here to view board guidelines.
School Uniform Policy
Official school uniforms are for sale through the R.J.McCarthy retail outlet.
The school uniform shall consist of the following minimum items and colours:
Bottoms: solid NAVY blue - casual pants, walking shorts, skorts or tunics (athletic pants will not be permitted, denim will not be permitted) primary students (JK - 3) only - solid navy sweat pants will be permitted
Tops: solid NAVY blue or white - collared blouse, golf shirt, polo shirt or turtleneck Students at our school will be encouraged to wear tops with the school crest. Bottoms will not have a school crest. Absolutely no other logos or designs will be permitted on either tops or bottoms. All clothing items are expected to be uniform colours, this includes cold weather clothing items (sweaters, sweatshirts, vests, pullovers etc.).
A variety of tops will continue to be available through McCarthy's. You may wish to purchase solid NAVY or white tops (fleece pullovers, sweaters, cardigans, sweatshirts etc.) at a retailer of your choice, however, the tops must be without logos or designs.
Solid NAVY bottoms may be purchased through McCarthy's or a retailer or your choice, again, they must be plain (no stripes) bottoms without logos or designs.
Footwear should be appropriate and comfortable for school.
The uniform policy is not mandated for Physical Education clothing items at this time. However, it is expected that students come prepared for gym class (proper running shoes, t-shirt and shorts). If you wish your child/ren to have uniform P.E. clothing, these items are available through McCarthy's.
Compliance and Enforcement of Uniform
Mandatory School Uniform implies that all students arrive at school dressed appropriately. Failure to do so shall result in consequences. The following progressive disciplinary consequences are to be followed:
- Three verbal reminders along with a written notification (notes, agendas) to parents by the teachers.
- Written communication by the principal or designate to parent regarding the breach of the Board policy and outlining the following consequences for further breach.
- loss of privileges (but not recess) and/or
- student receives detention/age appropriate discipline assignment and/or
- parent is contacted to pick up student from school and/or
- student will be suspended in the event the student without proper uniform attire
The integrity of the school uniform must be preserved not only in the items that comprise it, but also in the way in which it is worn and presented. The uniform must be clean and neat at all times. There is to be no deviation from the clothing items described. Good grooming, acceptable personal hygiene and adherence to the dress code are sure ways of demonstrating respect for oneself and others.
In the interest of preserving the integrity of the school dress code, we strive to present a positive image of the school and of its individual members to the community at large; any accessory or manner of presentment that, in the opinion of the school administration reflects negatively upon the positive image of the school community or an individual member will not be permitted. In particular, excessive face piercing ornamentation will not be permitted. Any chain, necklace or medallion must be worn under the uniform shirt or top. The dress code identifies the student as a member of St. Joseph School and offers enough variation to allow students to demonstrate their individuality. Thank you for your continued support.
Policy for Dress Casual (Civic/Pizza) Day
In the event that a uniform is not worn (i.e. pizza days), all dress should reflect the moral tone of a Catholic school. Students are expected to dress in a manner that demonstrates self-respect. Clothes must be neat and clean.
- All shorts must be hemmed and should be halfway down the thigh.
- No bare midrifts allowed at any time. Crop tops are not appropriate for school.
- Halter-tops or spaghetti-strapped tops are not appropriate (for school) and must not be worn to school.
- Tank tops or muscle shirts may only be worn over a t-shirt.
- No studen is allowed to wear clothing with inappropriate slogans/language or illustrations.
- Bicycle shorts and spandex shorts are not appropriate (for school) and must not be worn in school.
- Caps/hats must not be worn inside the school building.