Catholic School Uses "Modesty Poncho" To Remind Students Of Prom Dress Code

A Catholic High School in Michigan is facing a backlash from students and parents after they put "Modesty Ponchos" on display around the school to remind students of the strict dress code for prom. The ponchos were accompanied by a note that read, "If your dress does not meet our formal dance dress requirements — no problem! We've got you covered — literally. This is our Modesty Poncho, which you'll be given at the door. :)"

The idea for the ponchos came from theology teacher Mary Pat O'Malley. She said it was "intended as a deterrent and a lighthearted one at that."

"We are trying to focus on the inner beauty and not draw attention to something that doesn't need attention drawn to it," O'Malley told WJBK. "It was really intended as a deterrent and a lighthearted one at that."

Some students didn't see the ponchos as a lighthearted deterrent and felt that the ponchos were a form of body shaming. One unidentified student told Fox2 in Detroit that "school has gone too far with this."

"I do believe the school has gone too far with this," she said. "As we walk into prom, we are to shake hands with all the teachers and if you walk through and a teacher deems your dress is inappropriate you will be given a poncho at the door."

An anonymous parent echoed the student's concerns.

"It's a method of shaming, a method of building and degrading to females."

Officials at Divine Child High School were forced to clarify that they would not be handing out ponchos to students wear dresses that violate the dress code. Principal Eric Haley sent a letter to parents that explained that the ponchos were "on display to proactively remind students of our dress code policies and eliminate any confusion."

“Our intention with displaying the poncho was never to make students feel uncomfortable, but to remind all students and parents of our formal Prom dress policy, which has not changed for several years. To be clear: The poncho will not be passed out at Prom. It was on display to proactively remind students of our dress code policies and eliminate any confusion prior to this special event.”

He added that students are encouraged "to tailor their outfits or provide their own wraps or shawls that would meet our requirement. If necessary, we may also provide wraps and shawls, as we have done at school functions for many years.”