Blog

As the seasons change, so does the type of apparel that is worn by the students.  This necessitates a few reminders regarding the school’s policies on uniforms, guiding principles, and some reminders of what is acceptable and what is not.  It’s never an easy conversation with a student when something with their uniform is not quite right.  We broach the subject with discretion and make every effort to make sure the student isn’t singled out or embarrassed.  However, your help in reviewing the guidelines with your child and discussing what is appropriate, will go a long way in alleviating any uniform discussions.

PCS has adopted standardized school apparel for our students that helps develop an environment conducive to learning and respectful behaviour. There are three principles that guide our thinking here — modesty, neatness and cleanliness.  School apparel must be clean and in good condition and must meet the styles and logo requirements laid out in the PCS Dress Code policy in the Parent/Student Handbook (pgs. 24-27), as well as in some specific highlights found on the website.

There are some areas that seem to cause the most common challenges when it comes to uniforms:

• Pants - please remember that the appropriate style for pants is khaki or semi-dress.  Track pants, jeans, leggings and sweatpants are not appropriate everyday wear.  The only exceptions would be our JK, SK, and Grades 1-3 classes, as they do not use the change rooms for Gym class.  They are allowed to wear solid black track pants on gym days only, for the whole day.
• Non-PCS tops - Students are free to wear non-PCS sweaters and jackets when playing outside. However, when they are inside the school (hallways and classrooms), they are to only wear      PCS- logoed tops.  Many times, students say that they are cold when inside.  They are gently reminded that there is a PCS Hoodie available, and that they are also allowed to wear an undershirt beneath their PCS polo, provided it is solid white or black.
• Non-Uniform Day Apparel - These days are meant to be fun.  However, it is still important that all clothing maintain our three principles of modesty, neatness and cleanliness.  On occasion, we have had to speak to students about overly loose or tight fitting clothing, as well as appropriateness of slogans, pictures, etc.   

If ever you or a student has a question or concern about uniforms, please do not hesitate to stop in for a chat or drop me a note pogborne@pickeringcs.on.ca.  Thank you for your help and support.

P.S. - The change of season also sees a large increase in inventory for our Lost & Found Bin. There are so many items that have been left behind with no names attached, that there are literally hundreds of dollars of unclaimed items without identification.  If the item has a name in it, we can get it back to its owner. Please go through your children's clothing (especially hoodies) and label them.  We also do our best to regularly lay out any lost items.  Please feel free to take a look, in the north hallway, next time you are in the school.