Dress Expectations

Brimmer and May’s dress expectations provide students with the freedom to dress within a framework.
It is designed for readiness to learn and participate in school, allow for self-expression, and provide
comfort. We recognize that culture, religion, and personal identity may inform students' clothing
choices, and we strive to honor those choices. While we do ask students to adhere to stricter dress
guidelines on special occasions, or “Dress Days,” our intent is to allow students to make their own
clothing choices, keeping our Core Values and diverse community in mind.
Students are asked to dress in a manner that allows them to participate in learning for the day. Tops
worn must be designed to fully cover the torso. When choosing footwear, students should keep in mind
what is suitable for all scheduled classroom activities including physical education, science labs, and
other activities where unique safety hazards exist. Items such as sandals or baggy clothes may be
considered inappropriate for some activities for safety reasons. Hats and head coverings are permitted
but must allow the face to be visible and must not interfere with the line of sight in the classroom,
dining room, or in group assemblies. Hoods covering a student’s head are not allowed in the classroom
or hallways because they create a barrier to other community members. Headphones and AirPods are
not allowed to be worn while walking through hallways or in classrooms.
Clothing with language that goes against our Core Values, such as hate speech or racist or homophobic
language, is not permitted. This includes inappropriate words and/or pictures presenting innuendos
about sex, alcohol, violence, and drug use. Undergarments must be covered. Excessively ripped clothing
is not permitted, though very small frays are allowed. Slippers may not be worn at school.
Dress code violations, whether for a regular school day or a Dress Day, are assigned at the discretion of
School personnel and will be addressed by the Division Head or Dean of Students. Repeat offenders will
be given an ISCR (Upper School) or detention (Middle School) for each dress code violation.

Middle and Upper School Dress Days

Dress Days are limited to special occasions, the first Wednesday of every month, and specific events.
Dress Days set a business casual dress standard as the minimum dress level. Students should wear dress
pants or dress shorts, skirts or dresses, and “nicer” shirts, blouses, or collared shirts. Athletic sneakers
and blue jeans may not be worn on Dress Days. In addition to the first Wednesday of every month, dress
days include: Opening Convocation; Board of Visitors Day; Grandparents and Special Friends Day; Ring
Ceremony (Upper School); Bissell Grogan Symposium; awards ceremonies; and Honors Convocation.