Fostoria City Schools’ student safety at risk. Parents speak out about dress code enforcement

FOSTORIA – In a discussions on a Facebook post, Fostoria City Schools parents have voiced growing concerns about the inconsistent enforcement of the school dress code, particularly focusing on female students wearing revealing clothing. Parents feel that the outfits being worn—like crop tops and shorts—are inappropriate for the school environment and believe that this issue reflects a larger problem of school safety and respect.

One parent pointed out the proximity of a known sex offender to the school, urging parents to take their children’s clothing choices seriously, while others argued that clothing should not be blamed for potential dangers. Sabrina Cherie Arana-Saalman, for example, noted that a child’s risk of harm isn’t determined by how they dress. Another parent echoed this sentiment, stating that societal issues like sexual harassment should not be oversimplified by focusing solely on attire.

While some expressed their discomfort at seeing students dressed inappropriately at bus stops or on the way to school, others argued that it’s ultimately the parents’ responsibility to monitor their children’s clothing. “Why are these kids even owning such clothes?” asked one concerned parent, echoing a common frustration over how some children present themselves.

Many commenters recalled the period when uniforms were enforced at Fostoria schools, suggesting that perhaps reintroducing them would resolve the issue. However, not all parents support the return of uniforms, feeling that children should have the freedom to express themselves within reasonable limits. Ashlee Banks shared her perspective, saying, “I hated the uniforms. I think my kids should be able to dress like themselves, but the dress code should be enforced.”

Aside from dress code concerns, other parents expressed frustration over perceived bullying and inconsistent policy enforcement, which seems to target certain students more than others. Gina Miklovic claimed that the selective enforcement of rules led her to pull her child out of the school and switch to homeschooling.

The overarching concern from the discussion centers on the need for stricter enforcement of the dress code and for schools to address inconsistencies in how policies are applied. Many parents have been shut down after taking their concerns to school board meetings in hopes of finding a resolution. Parental representation does not exist at a normal level in the Fostoria City School system.