School Uniforms in the USA Essay Example

of one's ethical existence."

Benefits of School Uniforms

Supporters of uniforms have put forth various justifications.

According to Scherer (1991), school uniforms have a positive effect on student security by reducing student victimization (as cited in Brunsma & Rockquemore, 1998). Kennedy (1995) and Loesch (1995) found that the use of school uniforms has decreased gang brawling and other gang-related activities (as cited in Brunsma & Rockquemore, 1998). Gursky (1996) suggests that wearing school uniforms has been linked to increased attendance rates, decreased suspension rates, and reduced substance use among students (as cited in Brunsma & Rockquemore, 1998). Stover (1990) explains that school uniforms have promising effects in improving student learning and attitudes towards school by enhancing the learning environment (as cited in Brunsma & Rockquemore, 1998).

According to Thomas (1994), wearing school uniforms can enhance student achievement and improve their level of preparedness (as cited in Brunsma & Rockquemore, 1998). Additionally, there are numerous benefits associated with wearing school uniforms. Among these advantages is that students will view this security measure positively, rather than risking the entry of a stranger or even a potential killer onto school grounds. The prevalence of gang violence in the 1990s prompted the reintroduction of uniforms as a mandatory requirement for schools again (School Uniforms: Panacea or Band-Aid?).

In fact, even private and parochial schools decided to maintain their school uniform policy, according to Swartz. The successful implementation of the uniform policy in Long Beach, Chicago, and Birmingham schools has inspired other schools to follow suit, as they believe it makes it easier for them to regulate their students.

According to the Benefits of School Uniforms, students who participate in designing their uniforms are more

likely to see positive results. This includes increased focus on studying rather than fashion. Additionally, school should be a place for learning, not for showing off clothing choices. Furthermore, school uniforms can help eliminate the social and economic status messages that are often associated with apparel, as cited in Dressed for Survival (1994) by Swartz.

Wearing school uniforms has the benefit of increasing friendship among students and preventing the formation of cliques. This policy not only benefits shy and insecure students but also those from disadvantaged backgrounds. They no longer need to buy numerous expensive clothing items to impress their peers, reducing competition and unnecessary conflicts. As a result, unity is fostered within the school community. However, there are potential drawbacks to implementing a school uniform policy. Administrators may be tempted to engage in corruption by colluding with local uniform manufacturers for personal gain.

These corrupt school authorities have the ability to negotiate because they hold positions of power within the school system, without any oversight from others (Facts against School Uniforms). School uniforms are often seen as a means to promote conformity. However, schools require students who are independent and capable of critical thinking, and uniforms may limit their creativity in terms of personal appearance and clothing choices. It is important to note that students' attire does not always lead to teasing or bullying.

According to Facts against School Uniforms, most students are not bothered by what their peers wear. Wearing a uniform does not ensure that a troublemaker will behave towards another student wearing the same uniform. No matter what someone is wearing, a delinquent student will always find a way to bully someone they target.

However, the site Benefits of School Uniforms argues that there are several advantages to wearing school uniforms. The primary benefit is that it makes it easier for school authorities to identify their students, discouraging outsiders from influencing enrolled students. This added measure of security is preferred by students over the risk of strangers or potential threats entering the school premises. The rise of gang violence in the 1990s led to the reintroduction of uniforms in schools, including private and parochial institutions (School Uniforms: Panacea or Band-Aid?).

(Swartz). According to a study on the Effects of Student Uniforms on Attendance, Behavior Problems, Substance Abuse, and Academic Achievement, there was only a slight correlation between uniforms and standardized achievement scores. However, the study also revealed that uniforms are not dependable indicators of test scores and their relationship is weaker than what is suggested in the uniform debate (Brunsma, 1998).

Government Stance on School Uniforms

President Bill Clinton's administration advocated for implementing school uniform policies. In the 1996 State of the Union Address, President Clinton argued that uniforms could enhance school security and discipline. He believed that uniforms had the potential to break the cycle of violence, truancy, and disorder (as cited in Starr, 2005).

Conclusion

The ongoing controversy surrounding student uniform regulations involves schools, parents, and students. It is essential to assess dress policies considering the school's environment and the viewpoints of all parties involved. However, it is important to acknowledge that enforcing school uniforms has more benefits for everyone.