Schools host clothing drive for new dress code

To help Cape Public School District families prepare for the new school year, which begins August 16, and the new dress code, officials are planning a clothing drive.

"We want to make the transition to the new dress code as easy as possible," said Deena Ring, Special Services Director. She is asking the community to bring "new or gently-used" clothing to the District's central administrative office at 301 N. Clark between July 23rd and July 27th, where it will be sorted and organized for redistribution. (301 N. Clark is the location of the former Cape Vo-Tech School.) Collection boxes will be located inside the south entrance of the building. The office is open between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 pm.

"We have planned two events to ensure all of our students are able to start the year with adequate clothing meeting our new dress code," Ring said. "We will be accepting everything from tops and bottoms to shoes and belts, and distributing them at no cost." The dress code was approved by the school board earlier this year. Pictures of both approved and unapproved clothing are posted on the District's website at www.capetigers.com. Local clothing stores, as well as national vendors, are assisting and answering parents' questions regarding approved articles of clothing. The district distributed an illustrated dress code guide in May, and is mailing a second distribution soon, administrators said.

Families needing assistance with suitable clothing, due to financial reasons, are invited to come to Central Junior High School Fieldhouse at 205 Caruthers on Tuesday, July 31st, or Wednesday, August 1, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., to select approved items free of charge, Ring said. She can be contacted at 573-335-1867.