Do Parents Support School Uniforms?

by Teresa McEntire | More from this Blogger

12 Aug 2006 10:27 AM

School uniforms have long been used in private schools and were associated with the more wealthy and elite students in our country. But recently many schools have been turning to school uniforms in hopes to solve many problems faced within schools. Having a standardized dress code for all students is believed to equalize social status and improve safety and academics. Many of the educators where a uniform policy has been initiated feel these objectives have been met. "The uniformity of colors have shown a vast difference in student behavior overall," said Robin Payne, Hammond's director of secondary education and student services. "One student told me that it's kind of hard to act like a thug when you're dressed like that."

But what do parents think about school uniforms? In a recent article written by Carolyn Thompson of the Northwest Indiana Times many parents stated that they are pleased with the district's uniform policy. Judy Robak likes school uniforms because it eliminates her children from having to decide what to wear to school. "Before uniforms, there was a lot of disagreements in the mornings," Judy said. "Now, [my girls] just get dressed with no arguing."

Another benefit to school uniforms is that students don't feel like they are being judged by what they wear since all students are dressed the same. I remember by sister having to have a pair of Girbaud jeans in junior high, even though my parents really couldn't afford them. Her reason, everyone was wearing them, and she didn't want to be unpopular. With uniforms parents and students feel that students are seen for who they are and not by what they do or don't wear.

Other parents approve of dress codes because they eliminate phone calls from the school informing them that their child is dressed inappropriately. Students can also wear the same clothes year to year, if they don't grow too much, or easily hand them down to a younger offspring without worrying about the clothing being out of style.

Some parents felt that school uniforms limit students' choices and violate their freedom of expression. Others were concerned about how school uniforms would affect the wearing of religious clothing. Although most schools have an opt-out policy, where students can choose to not wear the standard uniform. Still other parents are concerned about the cost associated with implementing a school uniform policy. But many parents have found that the cost of school uniforms is substantially less than buying designer jeans and shoes. A manager at a uniform supply store stated that parents could spend as little as $100 to $200 purchasing their child's school uniforms.

As a parent would you support school uniforms? Or not?

Learn more about Teresa McEntire

Teresa McEntire grew up in Utah the oldest of four children. She currently lives in Kuna, Idaho, near Boise. She and her husband Gene have been married for almost ten years.

View Full Profile | More from this Blogger

Brownie (1011) 12 Aug 2006 11:18 AM

We have uniforms in Ireland, and I'm glad to have them. I think it promotes the community feeling and loyalty to a school, and does credit to the school when its students are on trips out, etc. But uniform companioes sometimes take advantage, and the costs can be quite high. Great article.

Lisa P (24013) 13 Aug 2006 07:29 AM

As a parent, I would love to see school uniforms in public schools here in the U.S. There is too much stress involved for kids in having the "right" clothes and kids have enough stress in their lives without having to worry about whether or not their clothes are cool enough to look like they're going out clubbing - rather than just going to school. (BTW I have a serious problem with that commercial too!)

Myra Turner (1560) 13 Aug 2006 08:19 PM

I just finished ironing my son's uniforms! He starts kindergarten Tuesday and I am all for them. I think it elimates a lot of problems with kids wanting to have the "latest". Also, you save a lot of money, in the end. Also the little ones look so cute in them!