We have worked with schools across the United States, and believe us, you are not the only person asking this question!
The answers that we have heard from our customers are as varied as our customers are.
The debate over school uniforms is complicated, so we've included highlights from both sides for you to consider:
The Pros
Professional
Some say that a child in a school uniform is more likely to take school seriously.
Putting on the school uniform signals he or she is going to school just like dad dresses up to go to work.
Schools report that when students dress in "work clothes" rather than "play clothes" they take a more serious approach to their studies.
Promotes Good Discipline
Many think that school uniforms help maintain school discipline, decreasing the amount of discipline problems.
The argument is that children today are lacking in self-discipline because parents refuse to discipline them.
This makes it more difficult on the teacher who has to deal with classes of 25-30 students at a time.
Reduces Fighting and Violence
Schools report that school uniforms decrease fighting and violence that arise out of arguments over fashionable clothes.
Children invariably tease those who do not have trendy clothes.
Those who can't afford name brand clothes are often sensitive about their clothing.
Schools struggling with gang problems report that school uniforms help ease tensions.
Distractions
Many parents believe that students wearing school uniforms look nicer and that a school uniform policy ensures that children will come to school in appropriate clothing, avoiding distractions such as fads considered to be outlandish or overly revealing.
Some students have turned school into an unending fashion show.
This distracts from learning, as some kids spend more time focused on their clothes than on homework.
Values
School uniforms stress that individuality and self-expression are not determined by designer clothing or the latest fashion fad.
Low Cost
School uniforms are a bargain.
They are becoming far less expensive than many other clothes.
Schools argue that school uniforms are economical, especially compared to designer clothing, and parents agree given school uniform durability.
They say school uniforms last longer because they are made for repeated wash and wear.
Many schools capitalize on this by starting used school uniform stores or swap meets.
Parents can get used school uniforms at discount prices, or just use them as hand-me-downs between siblings.
School Spirit
Some feel wearing a school uniform helps build school spirit.
It instills a feeling of belonging. As the Beach Boys said, "Be true to your school."
Schools report an increase in school pride.
