I am a student at Valencia Combined School, where the dress code has become a point of contention and discomfort for many girls. We are currently required to wear tunics, but many of us find this uncomfortable, girls can’t also carry on wearing tracksuits especially in this heat. We have been requesting permission to wear grey school pants instead - an option that is not only more comfortable but also more practical in our daily school life.

Despite our numerous requests, we have largely been ignored by the administration. However, there is one exception - a Grade 7 girl who has been allowed to wear grey pants for two years now. This inconsistency in policy enforcement further highlights the need for change.

It's important to note that allowing girls to wear pants can contribute positively towards their academic performance and overall well-being at school. According to research conducted by David L Brunsma and Kerry A Rockquemore (2001), students who are comfortable with their clothing tend to have higher self-esteem and better academic performance.

We believe it's time for our voices as students of Valencia Combined School be heard and taken into consideration seriously by the administration. Let us choose comfort over tradition; let us choose progress over stagnation; let us choose equality over discrimination.

Please sign this petition if you believe that all students should have equal rights when it comes to dress code policies at schools.