John Tyler parents meet new principal, discuss changes on campus - KYTX CBS 19 Tyler Longview News Weather Sports

Courtesy: Tyler Morning Telegraph

The issue of standardized dress took center stage tonight at John Tyler. Some 300 parents who came to a community meeting at John Tyler high school to meet the new principal and to learn about some proposed changes at the high school for the upcoming academic year.

The changes include establishing a separate ninth grade academy on campus, extending fencing around the school and implementing a strict dress code that officials said would help increase student collaboration and even positively affect academic performance. The proposed dress code would require all students to wear solid color clothing of a specific style and limited number of colors.

The school took written comments during Thursday's meeting and will make a decision regarding the dress code proposal likely during a June meeting on campus that officials will announce next week.

The suggested dress requirement drew positive reviews from some parents who see the potential for a stricter dress code to curb on-campus violence and gang issues, making the campus safer.

One parent called it a much needed change for the high school. But other parents balked at the standardized dress proposal, particularly when it comes to the costs associated with buying a new wardrobe, including shoes, for their children.