Arguments Against School Uniforms
The issue of school uniforms stepped into the national spotlight in 1996 when former President Bill Clinton sent every U.S. school district a handbook touting their benefits. Clinton argued uniforms would usher in a new era of order, respect and discipline that would end school crime and boost student achievement. Some schools, including those in Miami and Chicago, embraced uniforms. Several studies have looked at whether uniforms delivered all they promised. Although results of the research have been mixed, opponents believe uniforms are as bad an idea today as they were in the '90s.
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Freedom of Expression
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Opponents believe school uniforms compromise a student's right to free expression. Adolescents use clothing to define who they are and what they believe. Uniforms restrict the opportunities for expression during a significant time of self-discovery and growth. Uniforms stifle that growth, limit the chances to gain self-confidence and potentially stall the transition from adolescence to adulthood.
Financial Burden
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Some parents believe uniforms are a cost-efficient alternative to school clothes. However, opponents argue that for many families, uniforms can be a financial burden. Uniforms are not cheap, and most children and teens need several of them. Socks, sweaters and long and short-sleeve shirts are often part of the required outfit. Uniforms force students who wear their regular clothing in and out of school to spend money on a separate set of school clothes.
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Conformity
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Proponents of school uniforms say they level the playing field for students whose families cannot afford the latest styles or designer labels.They feel uniforms overcome economic and social differences and foster a sense of unity and equality. But opponents say uniforms send the message that conformity is a positive attribute that solves problems.They also point out that uniforms mask the fact that the playing field is never really leveled, and the problem of economic inequality is never solved.
Enforcement
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Uniforms make the morning rush to school simpler for students.They also free teachers from the need to scan hallways for teens wearing inappropriate T-shirts or gang colors.But uniforms also require teachers to enforce another rule, and punish non-compliance. Opponents of uniforms suggest the school system's assumption of authority over something as personal as clothing triggers resistance and rebellion among some students. It also generates anger and resentment among some adults who see uniforms as another example of the public school system's continual encroachment over their rights and control as parents.
Diversity
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Like adults, students operate on first impressions. They use clothing to categorize and often judge others. During adolescence and high school, they also learn the importance of toleration and cooperation with others from different backgrounds. Uniforms throw a wrench into that process. Opponents say that by disguising cultural differences, uniforms stunt the growth process that leads to an acceptance of diversity.
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References
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