that was it -- that the amount of bare leg exposed above the knee must in all cases be greater than that below the knee -- no excuses, no exceptions. I like the temperature rule and have toyed with that -- something like you suggested -- on days when temperature at 7:00 a.m. is below freezing, boys may wear long pants -- although there should be some indication that this is not a requirement but an option with the implication that the standard uniform (shorts and knee socks) is preferred. As I say, if upper body wear is plenty warm and the boy wears wool knee socks, the danger of exposure is minimal (no more than for the face -- less actually; the tip of the nose will be more susceptible to frostbite than the lower thighs.) I'm not sure about the reward for shorts business -- it might encourage rebellion. One of the most positive developments of recent years is boys insisting on the right to wear shorts in warm weather -- many schools had standard long pants uniforms and boys rebelled. Good for them! Am also encouraged by the number of boys who insist on wearing shorts right through the winter. The shorts tend to longish and floppy, but it's an excellent trend. SR |