The Socorro City School Service Commission on Nov. 24 approved a streamlined revision to its C-10 dress and personal appearance standards, the board heard. Carol, the HR director, said the rewrite removes detailed lists of prohibited items in favor of simpler language that preserves a professional image while allowing flexibility for different roles.

"This agenda item is to discuss through the revision of our C-10, dress and personal appearance standard policy," the HR director said, explaining the policy enacted Aug. 18 was found to be overly restrictive and has been condensed "to make it a lot simpler for employees to understand." The revision also clarifies supervisors’ authority to address appearances that do not meet standards.

Commissioners pressed HR on enforcement and employee impacts. Commissioner Alex Miranda asked whether employees with visible tattoos would be required to cover them, noting concern about both public perception and the financial burden of compliance. The HR director said existing employees with appearance elements that would be restricted under the new policy will be "grandfathered," while new hires will be required to meet the updated standard. She added supervisors may require employees to leave and return appropriately dressed, and time away for that purpose would be unpaid.

The HR director detailed that the prior policy named specific items such as particular shoes, T-shirts and athletic wear and that the new policy removes that itemized list to avoid subjective enforcement issues around hairstyles and similar matters. She emphasized supervisors are expected to consult the city manager when disagreements arise about what is acceptable, and that the intent is to maintain a consistent professional image and workplace safety.

A motion to approve Item 7 "as written" was made on the record; roll call recorded Commissioners Albert Ortiz, Carlos Ortiz, Alex Miranda and Claudia Olmos voting yes. The motion passed.

The commission accepted the changes and moved on to the next agenda item.