A question interrupts you

"Dean Hawkfeather? May we ask a question?" a soft, slightly accented voice makes you turn back to look at the two girls wearing headscarves and harem pants with their school uniforms.

You stop, nodding to the pretty olive complexioned girl to continue.

"Rayhana and I have been told that you will enforce the dress code, Dean Hawkfeather. As you can see, we are in uniform but we have added the headcoverings and pants. It is to honour our culture, not to diminish the uniform we are proud to wear. Must we remove them?"

Your service in the Persian Gulf has taught you the cultural significance of dress. While you wouldn't describe yourself as a sensitive guy, you have no desire to raise unnecessary problems. Your mind races, looking for a solution to the dilemma you fear you have created for yourself. Looking at the two exotic looking teens your eyes run over their clothes, seeing the Pink Rose uniform perfectly worn, and complete in every detail. You nod your head as a solution comes to you.

"Your uniforms are complete in every detail," you answer. "As long as that is the case, there is nothing in the Code of Conduct that states you may not wear accessories or additional garments. Your headscarves and pants are not an issue."

You see Ms. Naylor and Honey Thibodeaux give short nods of approval as the two Arab girls beam happily and thank you. You smile at them, then turn towards the Mellon Building, considering what you're going to do with the spiteful Miss Cummins.