Why School Uniforms Are Beneficial

What you wear doesn't change who you are.

The Supreme Court has thoroughly debated both the pros and cons of school uniforms. While Tinker v. Des Moines Independent School District upheld students' First Amendment rights in the context of armbands for mourning, school uniforms in the public school setting were not ruled an infringement upon students' First Amendment rights of free expression. Since the 1969 ruling, school uniform policies have taken firm root in public schools across the country, and the many benefits of school uniforms have come to light.

Safety First

School uniforms make it harder to conceal weapons.

Bill Clinton hit the nail on the head in his 1996 State of the Union address when he came out in support of school uniforms to "stop students from killing each other over designer clothes." According to the Department of Education, uniforms have since been linked to decreases in school crime, violence and gang activity. They help prevent gang members from identifying themselves through clothing and reduce options for concealing weapons. School uniforms also make it easier for security personnel to identify potential intruders.

Cost

School uniforms are durable and inexpensive.

In comparison with the designer wear most students covet, school uniforms are relatively cheap. Parents on a budget have learned to dread the end-of-summer school shopping frenzy, and uniforms provide them an out. The skirts, slacks and polos that make up the average school uniform, combined with dress code specifications for hair styles, jewelry and shoe gear, can relieve parents of considerable clothing costs. Sharing among siblings and school buy-back programs can further reduce expenses.

Convenience

Wash-and-wear uniforms save time and money.

No more what-to-wear dramas before school. Students and parents alike appreciate the convenience of knowing exactly what a student is going to wear each day. Laundry is a whole lot easier too. Buy a week's worth of uniforms and throw in a load on the weekend. Once sizes are determined, you can even shop online to avoid the shopping masses.

Productive Classrooms

School uniforms allow students to concentrate on what to learn instead of what to wear. No more peer pressure to wear certain brands or styles. No more distracting T-shirt sayings or inappropriate skin exposure at school. School uniforms are an outward show of discipline that lets students know we must all follow the rules. Increased focus and productivity is a welcome byproduct of school uniforms.

How to Introduce Uniforms into School

Like any educational policy change within a school, parents and student should have a voice. Ask for input regarding the types of uniforms that might be acceptable. Be specific and clear about what is to be achieved by implementing them and how success will be measured. Once the change is implemented, consistency in enforcement on dress code violations will help keep everyone supportive and cooperative.

References

• First Amendment Center: Student Expression
• Department of Education: Manual on School Uniforms
• Educational Leaders: School Uniforms