CEDAR LAKE | The Hanover Community School Board opted Tuesday to table a planned policy on student dress and grooming after students and adults asked questions they felt needed to be answered first.

It was a bit of a civics lesson for Student Council members who, encouraged by Student Council sponsor Travis Lechien, asked for clarification of some of the dress code language and offered suggestions.

Their interest and that from parents prompted the board to postpone consideration of the policy until the board, the public and Superintendent Michael Livovich can meet to discuss some of the issues.

Student Faith Cappas said only body art and tattoos deemed to be offensive needs to be covered by clothing.

And, Cappas asked whether athletes could be exempted from a rule barring headbands and sweatbands.

Parent Becky Hutch said she is concerned about female students who wear T-shirts provocatively, then wear them properly to escape discipline when sent to the office.

Hutch urged the board not to prohibit students from practicing Ash Wednesday traditions.

"Taking a moral stand should never be discouraged," she said.

At least one student that is a practicing Wiccan was suspended this past school year for face art that is part of certain Wiccan observances.

Board President Kay Sheehy thanked the students for participating in the process and for "having the nerve" to come before the School Board.

When Hutch said teen pregnancies have become "a huge distraction" in the school system and suggested pregnant teens should be separated from the school population, board member Todd Wilkening said male teens should be singled out as well.

Board Vice President Marilyn Kaper said there are 10 pregnant teens at the high school now.