School uniform requirements

While I cannot provide legal advice to a non-client, this does not seem appropriate to me. While private schools generally do have far more leeway in what they can require a parent/student to do, I would be asking a couple questions.

First, what is the purpose of requiring a family to purchase clothing at a particular store if, substantively, a parent can purchase the same thing elsewhere? Is there a written school policy that requires this? If so, what is the stated rationale? Who owns the clothing store (e.g., is it a family member or friend of someone at the private school)?

Second, many private schools forbid a "brand logo" on the school uniform. One rationale that private schools generally use to justify the no "brand logo" is to equalize the playing field - regardless of money or socioeconomic status, all students are the same. So, your scenario provides an interesting twist - the private school wants a certain name brand.

If I were in your shoes, I would be researching the school policy, purpose(s) behind that policy, and who owns the clothing store.

Good luck.

Lana Traynor

www.traynorlawfirm.com