A Uniform Policy

In order to create a consistent and safe environment that is free of distractions, Imagine Andrews Public Charter School has instituted a uniform dress code for all students. We believe that a higher standard of dress encourages greater respect for individuals, students and others, and results in a higher standard of behavior. In other words, students who come to school dressed properly will excel academically and conduct themselves appropriately while at school.

This belief is supported by research into the benefits of uniforms, though conventional wisdom suggests that mandatory uniform policies benefit students on specific behavioral issues (attendance and self control) and academic outcomes. Uniform policies also affect school environments and student outcomes by providing a visible and public symbol of commitment to school improvement and reform.

Moreover, Imagine Andrews is a National model for innovation in public education. Thus, “excellence in all we do” must permeate everything at Imagine Andrews, including how we dress. Parents are also to be reminded that our “high profile” nature, coupled with our proximity to Washington, DC, makes us easily accessible to some of the Nation’s most highly regarded leaders and other people of great prominence. With that said, the Uniform and Dress Code Policy was crafted in an effort to ensure that we “look the part” and represent our school community, Imagine Schools, Prince George’s County Public Schools, and Joint Base Andrews with pride and with excellence.

The Imagine Andrews uniform consists of:

  • Oxford shirts (short- or long-sleeved)
  • Khaki pants/shorts (no cargo pockets) for boys
  • Khaki scooter/skirt for girls
  • Necktie (navy/red/white stripe) for 1st – 4th grades
  • Red sweater (cardigan or vest)
  • Black/brown/khaki belt
  • Black shoes

Ties are required for students in grades 1-4, and optional for students in kindergarten. Red sweaters are an optional accessory. Students have a choice between the vest and the cardigan, and boys and girls can wear either of the two. However, they must be purchased from our vendor to ensure they bear an official Imagine Andrews logo.

All required uniform items — shirts, ties, and sweaters/cardigans — must be purchased from our vendor, By Grace Uniform Outfitters, because they will bear an official Imagine Andrews logo that is specific to our school. Call By Grace Uniform Outfitters at (301) 877-7780 or visit the website for more information. Online ordering will be available starting July 1. The Imagine Andrews access code will be 4798.

Khaki pants, skirts/scooters, and shoes may be purchased elsewhere. Parents may choose when students wear short- or long-sleeve shirts, and shorts or long pants. Scooters/skirts may also be worn at the parents’ discretion.

[Note: Scooters are skirts with "built-in" shorts. They differ from skorts because they have a "full skirt" look. We recommend that female students wear scooters for added privacy. However, parents may use their discretion as long as the child’s skirt is khaki- colored and meets the length requirement (must reach the top of the student’s knee caps)].

Imagine Andrews will provide limited, need-based assistance with uniform costs. Applications for uniform assistance will be available in July.

All parents must understand and agree with the dress code prior to the opening of school. Students are expected to be in their school uniforms on the first day of school. The complete school uniform policy can be found in the Parent Handbook.