When MACES was established, the school settled on a dress code to “…establish the sense of community, a sense of pride, and who we are as Wolfpack Scholars…” highlights Mr. Cueva.
However, many students argue that the dress code restricts them from being able to express themselves. According to Christina Lara, a current junior, argues that the dress code ‘… takes away people’s sense of individuality and self expression, it doesn’t really give people an outlet to show who they are and what they stand for…”
Nevertheless, the Wolfpack has found many creative alternatives to continue to show off their personality that still align with the dress code. For example, Lara is able to present herself through her distinctive hair. Lara’s hair is mixed with bright shades of purple, pink, and blue. The reasoning behind her boldness is “…it’s the colors of my favorite character from My Little Pony: Twilight Sparkle.”
Thus, Lara underlines that through her hair… “It allows me to show a small piece of who I am….” This exemplifies how with the implementation of the dress code, Lara is still able to find remarkable approaches to reflect who she is. The dress code doesn’t limit the Wolfpack from exploring who they are, it opens doors.
Furthermore, Lily Gutierrez, who is also a junior, is able to exhibit herself through her astounding eye makeup. “Even though I rarely wear it to school because of the sports I’m in, it gives me the opportunity to show my creativity.” Gutierrez expresses herself through detailed eyeliner that utilizes different brush strokes, unique details, and striking colors. She mentions that it “…relaxes me after a hard day of school.”
Beyond students expressing themselves through physical appearance, Giovanny Gutierrez, a sophomore, crochets items representing his new interests to clip onto his backpack. His self-expression is creatively crafted through his artistic expression, making him stand out from other students.
The dress code was never meant to restrain students from finding themselves in an important part of their life, it was meant for them to create a community filled with individuality and unity among them.
