The School District of Lancaster is permanently dropping its uniform requirement for elementary students, beginning in the 2023-2024 school year.
During the current school year, the district piloted a relaxed dress code at the elementary level, no longer requiring the traditional uniform of polo shirts and khaki pants or skirts. The district surveyed families in March about their perceptions of the pilot and what they would like the district to require in the coming year.
More than 1,000 parents and caregivers responded, with seven out of 10 saying the district should “adopt a uniform-free dress code, similar to grades 6-12.” In a survey of elementary school leaders, 92% voted in favor of a uniform free dress code.
The board policy governing student dress and appearance has not changed. Details on the district’s dress code can be found in the Standards & Expectations Guide:
Family Survey Results:
| Response | Votes | % |
|---|---|---|
| Return to requiring school uniforms | 329 | 31% |
| Adopt a uniform-free dress code, similar to grades 6-12 | 745 | 69% |
| TOTAL | 1,074 |