Leggings Policy Divides Evanston School

EVANSTON, Ill. (CBS) -- How tight is too tight? A debate is raging in the north suburbs about girls who wear leggings to school.

CBS 2's Suzanne Le Mignot reports that an Evanston school is at the center of the controversy.

Students at Haven Middle School in Evanston can wear yoga pants, leggings, skinny jeans; but they have to follow one rule.

"They are simply looking for girls to dress appropriately and make sure they're covered," said Melissa Burgia, spokesperson for Evanston/Skokie District 65.

A letter sent out by the Evanston school's principal says if the leggings are worn, a shirt, shorts or skirt worn over them must be fingertip length over the pants.

"I think there was some concern over the consistency in enforcing the policy among students," said Burgia. "Everybody should be dressed appropriately, in a professional manner to be in such a public setting."

Dozens of students are those opposed to the policy and have signed a petition.

"We feel that the dress code is a violation of the First Amendment," said student Corbin Kimrey.

"People should have the ability to express themselves through whatever they want, clothing, anything," said student Abe Levinson.

Parent Lori Colbert said, "I think kids should dress appropriately for school and for the most part, the kids do."

The principal's advisory team will review the dress code next week, and will take input from students and parents.