New Look for CCHS Students

CCHS has announced a three phase plan to implement a new uniform policy. Vice Principal Lori Phillips sat down for an interview to explain more on the policy and its effects on the school community.

The first phase of these plans include a change in uniform vendor, switching from Land’s End to FlynnO’Hara. However, next year, students who own Lands’ End pants can continue to wear them. 

The major change for students for the 2024-2025 school year will be the addition of a Mass uniform for all students. This uniform consists of a blue or white Oxford shirt with a pleated skirt for girls and navy or khaki pants with a tie for boys. The policy prohibiting hooded sweatshirts for Mass will continue through to next year.

The second phase for 2025-2026 includes the change with sweatshirts and crewnecks which will be phased out from everyday school days. They will only be worn on CCHS Spirit Days. Alternatives for sweatshirts will be the school-approved cardigan or quarter zip. Everyone except the Class of 2026 will have to wear the new FlynnO’Hara uniforms, but all students will follow the Mass Uniform policy on all Mass days.

By the third phase, beginning 2026-2027, all students will be expected to follow all aspects of the uniform policy including the FlynnO’Hara uniforms, the sweatshirts, and the Mass uniform. 

This change in policy highlights a longstanding tradition of Catholic schools. The uniform is an element of the Catholic school experience. The hope, according to Mrs. Phillips, is to bring “back a reminder of who we are and that we are united in our faith and here to learn.” After COVID, the uniform policy became looser. The goal now is “to raise our student profile.” She notes, while not on the uniform chart, the uniform will include long-sleeved polos and, for girls, a banded polo option to provide a tucked in blouse look. Part of the policy requires all students to both wear a belt and tuck in their shirts. 

Mrs. Phillips also wants to recognize the benefits of a uniform for students. She explains, “The uniform minimizes distractions within the classroom, enhancing academic focus for all students. It simultaneously reduces peer pressure, while strengthening a school’s identity.” She also added that it saves time and money for students and families. Switching to FlynnO’Hara has benefits, as well. The uniform cost is 30% less expensive compared to Lands’ End. For a family’s convenience, there is a local store. 

She predicts a minimal effect on the spirit store because of the rolling policy change and inclusion of Spirit Days. While sweatshirts are a part of team spirit within school sports, she hopes to see the “Game-day best” attire to help unify the team as a family. “I really do love the celebration of the team. … It’s nice to be recognized,” she adds. “The plan is to shift to a quarter zip or windbreaker for teams to have a more unified and defined look for athletics and/or clubs,” expresses Mrs. Phillips. The team sweatshirts will be more reserved for Spirit Days.

Administration is still figuring out what the best day for the CCHS Spirit Day is while working to balance it with dress down days. The idea as of right now is Fridays. The final decision will be communicated by June or July, towards the start of the school year. While still a work in progress, there are plans to make Mass more frequent.

While it may take time for some students to get used to, Mrs. Phillips emphasizes that it is for the students’ benefit and will contribute to CCHS’ pursuit of excellence. Students and families can find the complete uniform policy on the school website under the Community tab.