During the final week of January and the first days of February, Fort Lauderdale experienced an extreme cold front, with temperatures dropping to a low of 37 degrees on Monday, February 2nd. In response to the cold weather, many students arrived on campus layered in leggings worn under pants, undershirts, winter coats, UGG-style boots, and even blankets in an effort to stay warm.

On Tuesday, February 3rd, STA administration issued an announcement over the intercom informing students of updated dress code expectations. The announcement stated that blankets and UGG-style boots would not be permitted on campus during the school day.

The update quickly drew attention from students and sparked discussion across social media. Francesca Chiabara, a student at St. Thomas Aquinas, commented on a photo the Raider Review Instagram page posted prior to the announcement that showed two students wearing a blanket, writing, “Can’t stay warm when you guys banned blankets on the announcements this morning and with these thin uniforms.” As of this week, the comment has received over 80 likes, along with replies such as “preach,” clapping emojis,” and “literally.”

Chiabara also referenced the school’s standard uniform, which consists of khaki or navy pants purchased from Debbie’s Uniforms and navy, tan, or blue-and-white uniform shirts sold in the Campus Store (dress code expectations pulled directly from the STA student handbook). These uniforms were designed for typical Florida temperatures. According to the dress code, students are permitted to wear only official STA jackets or team and club sweatshirts as outer layers. Students may also wear underlayers, such as leggings, tights, or long-sleeve shirts, underneath their uniforms for added warmth.

The announcement also clarified that UGG-style winter boots are not allowed under the current dress code. While winter boots are commonly worn in cold weather due to their insulated sheepskin lining, STA footwear regulations limit students to black and/or white sneakers with socks.

Some students expressed frustration over the restriction, noting that faculty and staff members have been seen wearing UGG-style boots during the cold front. When asked about this, junior Taylor Peterson said, “It feels unfair that students aren’t allowed to wear boots when they’re practical for the weather, especially when we see adults wearing them on campus.”

As temperatures continue to fluctuate, the updated dress code has raised questions about how schools balance uniform policies with student comfort during unexpected weather conditions.