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CNN Live Today

Getting the Message

Aired August 23, 2002 - 12:41   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.


FREDRICKA WHITFIELD, CNN ANCHOR: Across much of the country, the new school year is in full swing, and for students at one South Carolina school that means a new dress code. Those who violate it get a new T-shirt. Parents say the freebie T is humiliating? Why?
Kris Mau with CNN affiliate WFTA explains.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

KRIS MAU, WFTA REPORTER: The first few days of school can be tough. Students often test the waters to see how much they can get away with, even when it comes to fashion.

To prevent distractions, schools give out rules in writing to students and parents. Students at Woodruff High School must pass a test on the materials. If they don't follow guidelines, they can choose an alternate T-shirt. At Easly High, the alternate garment is a little more to the point.

BETTY GARRISON, EASLY HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL: I don't want to embarrass anyone, and we specifically selected the color and the color of the print so that it would not embarrass a student.

MAU: The method seems to be working. Up to 30 T-shirts were handed out each day at the beginning of the year. Now they're down to as few as one a day.

So the shirt works for you? You will never violate the code again?

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Yes, ma'am, I will violate it again. I will meet the standards of the school district of Pickins (ph) Country.

MAU: Now the next step is addressing this fashion statement. Nothing in the Pickins (ph) code forbids the look. The principal told us, she will take care of it immediately.

Kris Mau, News Channel 7, Easley.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

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