How to Partner With Schools to Promote My School Uniforms

Many public, as well as private, schools are making uniforms a mandatory requirement.

Many schools, both public and private, are making school uniforms a mandatory requirement. There are parents and educators who believe that wearing school uniforms improves morale and school performance, eliminates socioeconomic barriers associated with wearing brand-name clothing, and helps school personnel quickly identify strangers on campus. Understanding the rationale for uniform requirements in your particular school district will help you establish a partnership with schools that may be interested in helping you promote your school uniforms.

Instructions

1. Learn about purchasing opportunities in your school district. Contact the superintendent's office for your district and request purchasing and vendor guidelines. Most districts post lists of items they are accepting bids for or products and services they wish to purchase. School districts will provide step-by-step instructions on how you can submit your product for consideration.

2. Find out who runs your local Parent Teacher Association (PTA) or Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) and ask for an opportunity to present your uniform line. Inquire about what they like and don't like about their current uniform line or supplier. Demonstrate the ways in which your school uniforms are superior, or how you offer better terms. School administrators often take recommendations from their parent organizations, so getting the support of these important groups will help you make your case.

3. Exhibit at back-to-school fairs. Showcasing your school uniforms at local back-to-school events will raise awareness of your product to both parents and school administrators. You're sure to meet school administrators at these types of events, which can help you network and establish new contacts.

4. Help promote the schools that carry your line. Partner with schools you are approaching to form the basis of a solid, mutually beneficial relationship. Offer to purchase a booth at a fundraising event or sponsor an activity or program.

5. Offer to run a uniform exchange program that allows parents to return outgrown uniforms for credit toward the purchase of new items. Gently used uniforms can be resold at a lower price or donated to charity.

Tips & Warnings

• For most schools, price, availability and durability are of key importance when it comes to purchasing school uniforms.

• You may need to have a business license and tax identification number to legally operate your school uniform business. Check with your local business licensing department for more information.

References

• Keep Schools Safe: Should School Children Wear Uniforms?

Resources

• Marketing Your Products and Services