In an effort to focus on and continue to improve the
academic achievement of the students of the Benton Harbor Area Schools,
the Board of Education approved new dress standards for the school
district during the June 2003 Board Meeting. A parent group has been
working on the implementation process and preparing information to share
with you. During the 2002/2003 school year, we surveyed parents about
school uniforms and 67% of the parents voted in favor of uniforms for
kindergarten through 12th grade students.
We
believe with the current low academic performance levels that we must
have the students think and behave differently about school. The
uniforms become a visible reminder to our students that school is a
place of learning. Each day when the students put on their uniforms
they will be reminded of the academic focus. The school district needs
your assistance in helping to create a positive, level playing field for
the success of your child. We are asking for your support in sending
your child to school this fall dressed in the new school standards. We
want the children and the community to be aware that a positive change
is occurring in our schools and your child’s learning and safety is our
top priority. We want every child who enters Benton Harbor Area Schools
to graduate and be adequately prepared for college, work or trade
school. We cannot do this without your help and support. Much has been
said recently about the academic achievement of the students of this
district. We have a five-year plan that will result in positive changes
with your support. The move to standardized dress is one step on this
journey.
The new dress standards is
effective for the 2003/2004 school year. All students are expected to
dress according to these standards.
Appropriate clothing may be purchased from the following merchants;
however this is only a suggested list of local vendors. Please contact
each merchant directly for exact return/exchange or guarantee policies.
Keep all receipts for easy exchange or returns.
|
IN-STORE |
CATALOGUE SALES |
INTERNET SALES |
-
Baby Fresh - layaway available
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JCPenny
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Max 10 – layaway available
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Meijer – layaway available
Sears
-
Target
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Wal-Mart – layaway available
|
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French Toast
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JC Penny
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Lands End
|
|
You
may also look for good condition, slightly-used clothing at neighborhood
sales, consignment or re-sale shops and newspaper ads. Additionally, we
are attempting to identify seamstresses who can make clothes for
especially difficult to fit children.
If you have questions and
concerns or if you are interested in serving on your child’s school
uniform committee, please contact Jean Sanders at 927-0600.
Thank you for working
with the Benton Harbor Area Schools for the success of all students.
Sincerely,
Paula M. Dawning
Superintendent of Schools
