Clarification Sought from Court on Whether Dress Policy Violates the Law: A Case Study of a Texas School District and Student Suspension – My MBA Career

Last Updated on September 21, 2023 by Robert C. Hoopes

Title: Texas School District Suspends Student over Loc Hairstyle, Sparks Debate on Discrimination

Text: A Texas school district has recently faced controversy after suspending a student for nearly two weeks due to his loc hairstyle. The incident has ignited a discussion regarding discrimination against hair-based cultural practices and the interpretation of state laws. The school district in question, Barbers Hill Independent School District, has sought legal clarification whether their dress code policy violates the recently enacted CROWN (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair) Act.

Seventeen-year-old student Darryl George found himself spending over two weeks in in-school suspension as his locs were deemed a violation of the district’s dress code. In an attempt to avoid any lawsuit, attorneys for the school district have petitioned the court to interpret whether the CROWN Act prohibits grooming policies regarding hair length for male students.

According to the district, they are uncertain whether the new state law encompasses hair length regulations. Enforcing strict adherence to the dress code, the district has issued multiple disciplinary action notes against George, even for minor infractions, such as wearing his locs in a ponytail. The student’s family argues that his hairstyle holds personal significance as it includes strands from his grandfather and father, adding to the cultural importance of his choice.

The CROWN Act, which aims to prevent discrimination based on hair texture or protective hairstyles like locs and braids, went into effect the same week George was suspended. Supporters of the act view it as a groundbreaking step towards inclusivity, recognizing diverse hair styles grounded in cultural heritage. However, its interpretation and implementation seem to be at the center of this controversy.

For now, the school district has refrained from taking further disciplinary action against George, pending the court’s decision. Nevertheless, the incident has reignited the ongoing dialogue about the boundaries of dress code policies in schools and the rights of students to express their cultural identity.

George’s family is considering taking legal action against the district, raising questions about the potential implications for educational institutions across the state. Advocates argue that it is pivotal for schools to navigate the fine line between maintaining discipline and fostering an inclusive environment that respects diverse identities.

This incident serves as a wake-up call for educational institutions to thoroughly review their policies and embrace diversity and cultural sensitivity while adhering to the law. It underscores the importance of ongoing discussions on discrimination, encouraging schools to evolve and adapt to the changing cultural landscape in order to better serve their students.