Midland Texas School Board Votes to Keep Gender-Neutral Dress Policy

The Midlothian Independent School District board approved its gender-neutral dress code in a close 3-2-1 vote, despite objections from two trustees.

During a July 20, 2026 session, the Midlothian Independent School District board voted 3-2-1 to retain a gender-neutral dress code that was first proposed by a diversity, equity and inclusion council in 2020. Trustees John Knight, Gary Vineyard and Ryan Timm cast affirmative votes, while Ed Harrison and Jessica Ward voted against, and Brandi Vess chose to abstain. The policy eliminates distinct dress standards for male and female students, addressing garment length without specifying gender, as explained by student services administrator Krista Tipton.

Rep. Brian Harrison asserted that the rule is a product of the district’s past DEI initiative, while Ed Harrison questioned whether the code would allow boys to wear dresses, referencing a nearby incident involving a transgender teacher. Board Secretary John Knight dismissed the concerns and moved to approve the policy for another year. The vote reflects ongoing local debate over school dress standards and the influence of prior DEI measures.