Scottsdale Board Member Sidesteps Committee and Parents in Controversial Dress Code Revamp

By Scottsdale Unites for Educational Integrity |

Recent revelations about Scottsdale Unified Board Member Libby Hart-Wells have raised significant concerns regarding her influence on district policies. Specifically, Hart-Wells allegedly leveraged her position to remove ‘navel’ from the school dress code, effectively circumventing the established Code of Conduct Committee.

This incident first came to light as Chaparral High School welcomed students for the 2024-2025 academic year, showcasing a female student in a bra top and low-cut jeans on social media. Although the actions occurred in 2022, parents are only now learning of them through newly accessed public records. These documents show Hart-Wells’ frustrations over staff resistance to her push for allowing midriff-baring attire.

Staff expressed a desire to respect the committee’s guidelines, but their stance did little to deter Hart-Wells, who was adamant about advancing her personal views. Notably, her emails failed to mention any consultation with parents, committee members, or fellow board members regarding her dress policy modifications.

“It’s clear that board member Hart-Wells does not respect the district or parents or have our students’ best interest in mind. We need school board members who prioritize academics and respect parents’ involvement in their kids’ lives,” voiced a concerned parent involved with Scottsdale Unified School District.

Documents show Hart-Wells continuously emailed district staff about her desired changes, citing equity as a justification. She claimed feedback from students supported her proposal but did not provide any evidence to back her assertion. In her communications, she insisted her motivations were rooted in the students’ educational environment.

Despite Hart-Wells’ persistent advocacy, district officials, including Assistant Superintendent Milissa Sackos and Director of Support Services Shannon Cronn, resisted her requests. They affirmed that her proposed changes contradicted the committee’s recommendations, emphasizing the importance of adhering to established guidelines.

Eventually, Superintendent Menzel endorsed Hart-Wells’ request during a board meeting, leading to the omission of the word ‘navel’ from the revised Code of Conduct without public discourse. The 80-page document received approval from several board members on October 18, 2022, further removing any oversight from the broader school community.

As these details surface, concerns are mounting about the current leadership and its commitment to academic integrity. Many in the community are now calling for change as the November elections approach.

Scottsdale Unites for Educational Integrity stands as a coalition of parents, teachers, and community members dedicated to ensuring the academic success of every student.