Three things Cape Girardeau students need to know as they head back to school

As students in the Cape Girardeau School District head back to the classrooms today, there are a few updates at the district to keep in mind -- from an amended dress code to updated technology and reporting systems.

The Cape Girardeau School Board relaxed the district's dress code this summer, giving students more options for what to wear. And earlier this year, the district's anonymous, online bullying reporting system went districtwide, providing students with direct access to the system through their laptops or the school's computer lab.

Also, as a way to reduce computer-damage reports, seventh-grade students at the Cape Girardeau Junior High School will receive new, more durable laptops.

Dress code

Instead of allowing only solid colors, students now can wear shirts with brand names, designs and words -- as long as the clothing doesn't promote violence or drug or alcohol use.

As before, tops can be polo style, and only one button can be left undone, or they can be crew neck or turtle neck. Vests, sweaters, V-neck sweaters, sweatshirts, pullovers, coats, jackets and hoodies can be worn the same as before but must have one of the new dress-code appropriate tops underneath.

Other rules for shirts include no "baggy, sheer, skin-tight, sleeveless or excessively large tops."

The rules for bottoms are the same as previous years, and the updated dress code in its entirety can be found at capetigers.com.

Report bullying

Created by Central Junior High School counselors Ed Draper and Julie Janzow, the online reporting system was first implemented at the junior high last fall before becoming districtwide in February.

When a form is submitted by a student, it is emailed to counselors at the school the student attends. The student can leave a name or submit the form anonymously.

The form asks:

• What is the name of the student who you are concerned about?
• Where did the incident that you are reporting happen?
• Describe the problem or incident that you witnessed/heard that you are concerned about.
• What is the approximate date and time that this incident occurred?

The district cautions the reporting system isn't for emergencies, and those in need of immediate help should find a trusted adult or contact authorities.

1:1 initiative

District officials recently said the junior high school had twice as many reports of computer breakage because of mistreatment by younger students.

To curb those reports, the district ordered 375 Dell laptops that are more durable. Most will go to seventh-grade students, and a few will be kept in the library for loaners and spares while damaged devices are being repaired.

For $50 per student, families get $400 in coverage for the device and charger. Payment plans are available, according to the district, and parents can pay online or in person at the student's building.

Dana Saverino, communications director at the district, said the seventh-graders will receive their new devices by early next week.