A Uniform Policy

In order to create a consistent and safe environment that is free of distractions, Imagine Lincoln Public Charter School has instituted a uniform dress code for all students. We believe that a higher standard of dress encourages greater respect for individuals, students and others, and results in a higher standard of behavior. In other words, students who come to school dressed properly will excel academically and conduct themselves appropriately while at school.

This belief is supported by research into the benefits of uniforms, though conventional wisdom suggests that mandatory uniform policies benefit students on specific behavioral issues (attendance and self control) and academic outcomes. Uniform policies also affect school environments and student outcomes by providing a visible and public symbol of commitment to school improvement and reform.

The standard Imagine Lincoln uniform consists of:

• Shirts: burgundy polo shirt for boys grade K-5, white dress shirt (short- or long-sleeved) for boys grade 6-8; white blouse with Peter Pan collar (short- or long-sleeved) and burgundy polo shirt for girls grade K-5, white dress shirt (short- or long-sleeved) for girls grade 6-8
• Pants: grey twill for boys grade K-5, khaki twill for boys grade 6-8; burgundy and grey plaid, kick-pleat skirt, jumper or skort (at least knee-length) or grey twill slacks for girls grade K-5, khaki pleat skirt (at least knee length), khaki twill pants, and khaki skort (at least knee length) for girls grade 6-8
• Neckties: no tie for boys grade K-5, navy/khaki striped tie for boys grade 6-8; burgundy striped cross-bow for girls grade K-5, navy/khaki striped tie for girls grade 6-8
• Belt: black or navy, if pants have belt loops for boys grade K-8
• Sweater: optional for boys and girls grade K-5, sweater or vest required for boys and girls grade 6-8;
• Shoes: black with rubberized soles for boys and girls grade K-5, brown or cordovan penny loafers for boys and girls grade 6-8
• Socks: black, burgundy or navy for boys grade K-8; black, burgundy or flesh tone socks or tights for girls grades K-8

Athletic shoes are necessary for physical education and other physical activity; however, athletic shoes are not acceptable as part of the student’s unoform. Cleaned, pressed clothing is expected. Students should not begin their school day in soiled, wrinkled, or torn clothing. Shirts must be tucked in at all times. Ties are to be neatly worn and not loose-fitting. Hats or caps are not to be worn in the school building.

All required uniform items — shirts, ties, etc. — must be purchased from our vendors, By Grace Uniform Outfitters and Flynn & O’Hara, because they will bear an official Imagine Lincoln logo that is specific to our school. To reach our vendors:

• By Grace Uniform Outfitters: You may order uniforms by visiting the store, located at 8843 Woodyard Road, Clinton MD 20735, by calling (301) 877-7780 or faxing your order (301) 877-7781 or by visiting the website for more information. Online ordering will be available starting July 1. The website code is 3120.
• Flynn & O’Hara: You may order uniforms by visiting the store, located at 8807 Annapolis Road, Lanham MD 20746, by calling (800) 441-4122 or by visiting the website for more information.

All parents must understand and agree with the dress code prior to the opening of school. Students are expected to be in their school uniforms on the first day of school. The complete school uniform policy can be found in the Parent Handbook.