WENDELL - Information on a new dress code will accompany the report cards Wendell High School parents expect to receive in the mail early next week.

The policy, which district trustees unanimously voted in favor of during a May 20 board meeting, will be implemented next fall and is more of a strict standard code of dress than a uniform code, said WMS Principal Luke Kelsey.

"A uniform, to me, is a blue polo-top and khaki pants, and that is not what we have," Kelsey said. "The tops will be polo-style but we are allowing five colors (yellow, green, pink, white and gray) for them and students have the choice of wearing khaki, blue and black bottoms."

Kelsey added that bottoms will not be restricted to merely full-length slacks, as students are free to wear capri-style pants, shorts and skirts which meet color requirements. School-sponsored logo apparel will also be permitted.

"I think if the kids dress the part of being good kids, their behavior will follow suit," Kelsey said.

Kelsey said Jerome's Wal-Mart and D&B Supply stores, as well as the Old Navy store in Twin Falls have been contacted by the school and have pledged to stock up on clothing meeting the code. The school has also contracted with a Boise Nelson School Supply to bring discounted items to school registration in August.

Kelsey hopes the stricter dress code minimizes issues pertaining to modesty and gang affiliation.

A uniform policy at the middle school has been a hot topic in the district over the past few months. During a special meeting held April 23, trustees rescinded a previous vote to move forward with the policy after several parents voiced opposition.

While Board President Gay Petersen wouldn't comment on why the board again voted in favor of the policy she said her zone constituents are in support of the new dress code.

Some parents still aren't so sure of the change.

Wendell resident Stormy Eldredge will have two students attending the middle school next year. Possible cost issues aside, she said the policy should be implemented district-wide.

"If they are going to have a uniform policy at the middle school, they should have it at the high school, too," she said.

No uniform policy is planned for Wendell High, though officials are drafting a tighter dress code for district employees.

Blair Koch may be reached at 208-316-2607 or blairkoch@gmail.com