Why do we support uniforms and dress codes?
Many schools have implemented uniforms and dress codes for both practical and social reasons. Practically speaking, a standardized uniform allows a child to get by with a minimum amount of clothing. You have your everyday wear and then a Sunday best outfit for more formal occasions. A uniform often serves as a marvelous equalizer of social status. It matters not whether you are the Earl of Snowdon or the son of the local green grocer when you follow the dress code. Everybody looks the same. Uniformity rules.
Do uniforms improve test scores and enhance discipline?
Long Beach Unified School District, back in the ’90s, instituted a dress code policy for its students. Proponents of the policy claimed that the dress code created a climate for education, which led to improved test scores and better discipline. Research may vary on this, and responses from parents often differs from teachers, with parents (and students) arguing for more flexibility for personal style and expression, while teachers are often largely supportive of uniforms and dress codes because of the perceived improvements in both student performance and behavior. That said, private schools generally create a climate for learning more consistently than public schools do to begin with.
Uniforms and dress codes are just one part of the formula for success. The real secret to success is consistently enforcing rules and regulations. Hold students accountable and you will see results.
Pros of school uniforms
- Preventing gang colors, etc. in schools
- Decreasing violence and theft because of clothing and shoes
- Instilling discipline among students
- Reducing need for administrators and teachers to be ‘clothes police’ (such as, determining whether shorts are too short, etc.)
- Reducing distractions for students
- Instilling a sense of community
- Helping schools recognize those who do not belong on campus