JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A strict uniform policy at Westside High School is keeping some students out of class just days into the new school year.
Parents say their teens are being sent to the auditorium —and are missing out on valuable school time — because the polo shirts they are wearing don’t have the school logo.
One mother told News4JAX that she’s so frustrated, she’s considering pulling her children out of the school entirely.
She said her son spent two full days in the auditorium—and her daughter, an honor student, was also pulled from class just because her pants had pockets.
“They sent her in the auditorium to sit there. I had to call up there and ask them why. I understand that if all of the kids are out of uniforms, yes, but it’s the first week of school,” Tiffany Kendrick said. “Some of these students haven’t seen their teachers yet. It’s ridiculous. How are they ever going to get an education if you’re putting them in just one room and making them sit there for hours?”
The uniform policy for Westside High School was posted to the school’s website less than 24 hours ago.
According to the policy, students are required to wear gray, black, or red polo shirts with the school logo. Khaki or black pants, shorts, or skirts are allowed—but no jeans, leggings, or cargo pants.
Parents say some students are being pulled from class simply because their shirts are missing the school logo — even if the rest of the outfit meets the guidelines.
The school says the policy is mandatory, with no opt-out option.
In response to the backlash, the principal apologized for the confusion in a message to parents, saying the new policy is about improving school culture, safety and accountability.
Dear Westside High School Parents and Guardians,
I would like to first apologize for any confusion or frustration that may have been caused by the enforcement of the Westside High School Uniform policy. This correspondence will hopefully clarify the communications previously sent and that are posted on our website.
In our ongoing effort to increase student accountability, promote integrity, and maintain a safe, comfortable learning environment for all students, Westside High School will implement a mandatory school uniform policy for the 2025-2026 school year. All students will be required to wear uniforms and will not have the option to opt out. Research shows that school uniforms improve safety, boost self-esteem, and reduce anxiety about appearance. Uniforms also improve discipline, raise academic performance, and contribute to a stronger school culture. By adopting this policy, we aim to strengthen our Career and Technical Education Academies and better prepare students for success beyond high school.
Uniform Requirements
Shirts:
• Grey, black, or red polo shirts with the school logo.
• Button-up shirts and jackets with the school logo are also available for purchase.
Vendor Information:
R C Uniforms
11153 Beach Boulevard
Jacksonville, Florida 32246
904-646-0493
Bottoms:
• Full-length khaki or black uniform pants, shorts, or skirts.
• No jeans, cargo pants, spandex leggings, jeggings.
• No Distressed (rips, tears, cuts) pants.
Additional Guidelines:
• All shoes must fully cover the feet. Backless shoes are not permitted.
• Hoodies/jackets with hoods, hats, and non-religious head coverings are not permitted on campus.
We are committed to creating an environment where all students can thrive academically and socially. Thank you for your cooperation and support in ensuring the success of our students.
If you are experiencing an unforeseen hardship, please contact our partners at Full Service Schools (FSS) via https://forms.office.com/r/rq5Khci4D5 or by calling 211.
We also cordially invite you to join Westside High School’s School Advisory Council. Our next meeting will take place on Monday, August 25th at 5:30 p.m.
If you have any questions about the uniform policy, please contact the school at 904-573-1170.
Westside High School Principal Vincent Foster
Among students, there’s talk of a peaceful protest. They are encouraging each other to wear their school polos but to wear “non-uniform” pants.
“Keep this up until they let kids go to class,” a post said. “They cannot continue operating as a school without students in classrooms.”
