by Stephen Hammel

Created on: June 27, 2009

This article is not designed to argue whether or not a school should implement uniforms for students, and it does not address the common arguments from students about dress codes or uniforms. While those are worthy ideas for healthy debate, this is not the forum for such a thing. There are, however specific benefits to putting students into uniforms that, depending on the school's reasons for doing so, change the dynamics of the student population, and have a significant positive impact on school climate.

Uniformity

It can't be understated that, given the ability to dress how they want, students will wear just about anything. It is the outward expression of self, wealth, and status. Outside influences from music, movie, and fashion find their way into the competition that is school. Once there, these influences are used to segregate, elevate, and discriminate student groups. At times, this segregation is desirable, but when left to the devices of students, the school community will suffer as a whole as students attempt to let emulate their idols.

Like a great equalizer, school uniforms level the field. They create a common bond among students that forces them to view others as equals. Sure, there will always be subtle differences in how kids put themselves together from day to day, but everyone starts with the same basic clothes, and the similarities between students removes much of the distraction created by creative attire.

Reality

There's a reason successful businesses have employees meet certain levels of dress. They run the gamut. Business casual, shirt and tie, slacks, and designated outfits all mark the people who engage in those activities. Few professionals are able to take complete liberties with what they wear to work. Those who do violate professional dress codes are dealt with, either professionally or personally, through their relationships with their peers, supervisors, and customers. Many times dress codes are driven by safety or need. Other times they differentiate between different levels of the hierarchy in our professional world. The fact is, when we go to work, we dress for work. Leading students down the path of free choice, then having the real world dictate a different reality sets the students at a disadvantage when they do finally make it out of school. The expectations of our community should reflect in the expectations of the school. Anything less creates disparity and confusion.

Simplicity

As a parent, I'm

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