Let students be who they are

Re: Boys wear dresses to protest Clovis Unified dress code vote (Feb. 2):

Being a high school student is already hard without being told what you have to look like. Forcing these kids to abide by the rules is making them feel uncomfortable in their skin. It’s not going to help them get better grades; it will have the opposite effect.

Instead of paying attention in class, they will be worried about the uncomfortable clothing they are wearing or their ridiculous haircut.

I learn better when I feel comfortable and relaxed in my environment. If a boy wants to have long hair, and if that is what is going to make him feel comfortable, why not? Being who you want to be gives you confidence, and when you have confidence it reflects in everything you do.

Confidence is priceless, especially in this world where everyone is constantly judging you. High school is a great place to learn that expressing yourself is OK and being who you want to be is accepted.

This story was originally published February 13, 2016 at 5:25 AM with the headline "Let students be who they are."