Mandatory Uniforms: The Beginning of Change for Public Schools

It's July and very soon we will be thinking about purchasing new school clothes for the kids return to school in the fall. Depending on their age, depends on how much control you have as a parent on how much money will be spent and what type of clothing will be bought. Of course the kids will want at least two pairs of $80 tennis shoes and that's just the beginning. In public schools, what you wear really decides who you are and who will be your friends. Unfortunately this starts happening around third grade for most kids.

In 1996, President Clinton introduced the idea of mandatory uniforms in public schools and since then the issue has been growing. Those against mandatory uniforms claim that enforcing this will stifle the children's self expression to the point where it could actually be detrimental. Further, it is believed that it will strip the children of their individuality. Cost is the final factor for those who shun this idea as they claim that it will cost them twice as much because they will not only have to buy uniforms but clothes for after school hours as well.

Many are in favor of the idea backing their reasons up with the fact that it is proven that children perform better academically when they wear uniforms because they don't focus on wardrobe which can be a real academic killer. It also sets a more serious tone in the entire environment, improving student performance and reducing violence as well. Clothing and fashion are usually at the root of all social conflict and children are often ridiculed by other children because of the way they dress. Many children use clothing to express themselves and to define themselves. This self-expression and definition often leads to the formation of cliques in the school environment.