Student Dress Code

The Torah considers an individual’s appearance to be a reflection of his/her sense of קדושה and צלם אלוקים. The dress code reflects the school’s commitment to the values of צניעות (personal modesty) and כבוד הבריות (respect for human beings). In addition, students’ dress contributes in large measure to the atmosphere in any school. In keeping with halacha and following the prophet Micha’s words, “Walk modestly with your G-d,” discretion should be used when choosing clothing, hairstyles and jewelry.

We believe that MJBHA students should dress properly not only during school hours and on school premises, but also after school, on Shabbat and holidays. The dress code should reflect a general way of living, not just a series of rules for school.

Visitors are also expected to respect the spirit and letter of the dress code, both during and after school hours.

DRESS CODE POLICY (Grades 1-12)

BOYS

• Boys in school should wear collared shirts; respectable, regular length pants; a kippah and tzitzit at all times.
• All shirts must be collared (oxford style or polo) and buttoned in front. Long-sleeved turtlenecks without writing are permissible.
• Sweatshirts or sweaters may be worn over appropriate shirts but may not display offensive images or messages.
• No shorts may be worn, except during approved athletic activities
• Denim jeans are not permitted. Pants are unacceptable when ripped, oversized, discolored or washed out. Pant waistlines may not be worn below the hips.
• Socks must be worn.
• Hats are not to be worn in school.
• Traditional hairstyles which conform to halacha (with payot) are appropriate for school. Hair must be of a length that is both neat and presentable, reflecting the basic appearance of a ben torah; no excessively long or short hair (subject to administrative discretion) is permitted.
• Earrings, other body piercings and tattoos are prohibited.
• Pool shoes, “flip-flops,” or “heelies” may not be worn in school.

GIRLS

• Girls in school should wear a modest blouse or top; skirts or dresses that come no higher than the knee; and appropriate shoes.
• Blouses and tops should be opaque with modest necklines and sleeves extending more than halfway down the upper arm. Men’s style T-shirts and T-shirts with writing or pictures are not permitted.
• Skirts or dresses should fall below the knee when seated. Skirts with slits above the knee are unacceptable.
• Tight-fitting clothing is not acceptable.
• Sweatshirts or sweaters may be worn over appropriate tops but may not display any offensive material or messages.
• Hats are not to be worn in school.
• Hairstyles should be appropriate for school. Dyed hair must look natural.
• Pool shoes, “flip-flops,” or “heelies” may not be worn in school.

Administration and faculty members have final determination of appropriate attire.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND OTHER ATHLETIC PROGRAMS

BOYS

• Kippa (with clips if necessary)
• T-shirt that displays no offensive content
• Knee-length shorts or sweatpants
• Sneakers with rubber soles
• Socks

GIRLS

• T-shirt with sleeves that displays no offensive content
• Culottes or sweatpants
• Sneakers with rubber soles
• Socks

All students must change back into appropriate clothing before going to their next class or other school activity. All changing is to take place in designated areas. Students may not walk through the building without having changed into proper dress.

The dress code is in effect on all days including Sunday classes, exam week, graduation ceremonies and after-school activities. Even then, gym apparel is to be worn only during athletic activities and not in the hallways. Students must be particularly careful when they have physical education, clubs or recess not to linger in the hallways and classrooms of the school in inappropriate dress.  Students who have completed their classes for the day and are awaiting either transportation or the beginning of some other activity must continue to adhere to the school dress code. Clothing that is worn for recreational activities either in school or on trips should also be in keeping with dress appropriate for b’nai and b’not Torah. On special occasions, such as school trips, Rosh Chodesh, and special assemblies, students may be asked to dress in their Shabbat attire.
Students in violation of the dress code will not be allowed to attend class or the activity in question until they dress appropriately, even if this involves being sent home. Covering up an inappropriate shirt with a jacket or sweater is not sufficient. Students who flagrantly or repeatedly violate the dress code will be subject to detention or more severe penalties at the discretion of the school administration.

KINDERGARTEN STUDENTS ONLY

• The dress code for Kindergarten differs from the Middle and Upper Schools in the following respects:
• Children may wear shirts without collars.
• Boys may wear shorts to school.
• Girls may wear shorts or pants to school.