A strict dress code adopted by a Staten Island school has resulted in several students getting detention, and many who haven't abided by it have been warned they could be next.
A city Department of Education spokeswoman tells the New York Post the new "Dress for Success" policy at Tottenville High School was a "local decision" made "at the discretion of the principal."
In the last week, five students were given detention for violating the dress code policy, according to the Department of Education. Most of the detained students were girls. The code covers everything from tank tops and short shorts to hoodies and sunglasses.
Christian Olsen, one of the five detained students, said he got in trouble for wearing sweatpants. He said he plans to continue wearing them anyway.
Many other students said Monday they planned to ignore what they considered the overly strict policy, and others said it's often so hot inside the school they had to wear cooler clothing to stay comfortable.
"He's saying you can't wear hoodies, and I'm wearing a hoodie 'cause I don't care," said Mike Falcone.
Lauren DeMeno, who wore a midriff-baring top Monday, said her outfit passed the parent test, so she took a chance by wearing it to school.
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"If we had air conditioning, I would understand. But it's so hot in school," she said.
District 31 Superintendent Aimee Horowitz says skimpy clothing is banned because it "interferes with the learning and teaching process." Other schools have uniform requirements, she said.
City officials say parents signed off on the policy before the start of the new year. But some parents say the policy has backfired.
The Post says Principal Joseph Scarmato didn't return calls seeking comment.
Lori Bordonaro contributed to this report. Follow Lori Bordonaro on Twitter @Lori4NY
