A petition demanding changes to the Lafayette Parish School System’s (LPSS) dress code policy, specifically the rule banning hooded jackets and sweatshirts, is gaining traction online. The issue gained attention after incidents, including Kerra Wilson’s 4-year-old son being left outside without his jacket in near-freezing temperatures, highlighted inconsistencies and concerns about the policy’s implementation.

LPSS Clarifies: Hoods Allowed Outside

In its recent statement, LPSS acknowledged that the student in question could have worn his hooded coat outside, though the hood itself is not allowed indoors. While this suggests the district recognizes the importance of keeping children warm, parents and educators argue that the rule remains unnecessarily complicated.

“Wouldn’t it make more sense to simply tell children to remove their hoods while indoors?” asked one parent on social media. Others questioned why enforcement seems inconsistent across schools. Reports have emerged of some schools allowing hooded jackets on specific dress days or as rewards, further muddying the waters.

Dress Code Policies Reaffirmed

LPSS previously addressed the controversy by issuing a statement reaffirming its dress code policies, outlined on page 26 of the 2025-26 Student/Parent Handbook. However, the response has done little to slow frustrations, with many parents accusing the system of prioritizing rules over student well-being.

Arthur Tseng, Unsplash
Arthur Tseng, Unsplash
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When asked about the origins of the hood rule and speculation that it relates to preventing students from hiding AirPods or other devices, LPSS did not provide clear answers.

Inconsistencies in Enforcement

Parents have voiced frustration over what they see as unequal implementation of the rule. Angel Sonnier commented, “If students can’t wear hooded jackets, then the teachers should be treated the same.” Lori Robichaux Broussard added, “It doesn’t take a lot of critical thinking to realize these rules are ridiculous. Why not just have kids remove their hoods inside instead of banning the entire jacket?”

The confusion appears more pronounced in high schools, where enforcement is stricter due to concerns about students using hoods to hide earbuds or other devices. However, these issues are less relevant for younger children, like pre-kindergarteners, making the rule feel unnecessarily punitive for elementary students.

A Growing Call for Change

The petition, now circulating widely, argues that hooded jackets are an affordable and practical option for families. It also points out that Louisiana’s frequent rain and fluctuating temperatures make hoods essential for staying warm and dry.

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Parents and community members are now urging LPSS to simplify the policy to prioritize children’s comfort and safety. Suggestions include allowing hooded jackets outdoors while requiring hoods to remain down indoors. Others propose a district-wide reevaluation to ensure rules are applied consistently and fairly across all schools.

Preparing for Another Possible Arctic Blast

With another arctic blast likely set to plunge temperatures to near-freezing levels for the rest of January and into February, the urgency for change is growing. Many parents worry about their children’s safety and question whether the current policy adequately addresses the realities of winter weather in Louisiana.

“Rules shouldn’t come at the expense of a child’s comfort or health,” said one commenter. “If LPSS truly cares about keeping kids warm, they need to make this policy clear and consistent across all schools.”

So, What's Next?

As the petition gains momentum, parents hope LPSS will revisit the “hood” rule with input from educators and the community. Even with overwhelming support for a more practical and compassionate approach, it's uncertain that LPSS will address this issue before the next cold front puts children at risk.

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