ACLU of Idaho warns schools of discriminatory dress codes

BOISE – The American Civil Liberties Union of Idaho is warning that an Idaho school district’s dress code is unconstitutional and must be changed.

The organization sent out warnings Tuesday to all Idaho districts urging them to review dress policies to make sure they comply with constitutional standards.

The Cassia County School District is requiring all female students participating in the high school graduation to wear white or pastel dresses. Male graduating students must wear pants and a tie.

ACLU Legal Director Richard Eppink said schools that make a distinction between boy and girl dress codes are enforcing gender-stereotyping policies, which violate the state and U.S. Constitution.