38 of 64

No

Write now Article Tools

Aside from the free speech issues associated with uniforms, there some educational and social reasons why they are a bad idea. Admittedly, public education is a means by which we "normalize" our citizenry. We do this by controlling the beliefs through the approved messages contained in textbooks and by attempting to control behavior. Ever noticed the two sides of a report card: academic and behavioral? Uniforms are a logical extension of the normalization goal. They work great in factories and the military, equalizing people from various backgrounds.

One reason why some believe uniforms will work is that students are too pre-occupied with what their classmates are wearing. The uniform issues simply shifts the pre-occupation from the student to the teacher, who will now spend valuable educational time policing that the uniform is worn and how it's presented.

To a degree, we all are beholden to a uniform. In the office environment, it's the suit and tie. In fast food restaurants, it actually is what we traditionally call a uniform. The difference is creativity. The corporate uniform has room for some personal expression: paisley or striped tie, white or colored shirt, cuffed or uncuffed pants. There is no such creativity in the military or factory uniform.

Students at private schools long have worn uniforms. But because the unspoken promise is that they will be our leaders and as such eventually will join the creative uniform class. What message do we send to our public school students? Wear the uniform now so you'll be used to it when you have to wear one for work.

Some students, indeed, may dress inappropriately for school. But that's what dress codes are for. Besides, if these students ever are to escape the assumptions they will be the brawn of our society rather than the brains, they will need to guidance on how to dress. What can be more educational than the discussion that can surround appropriate dress?

Learn more about this author, Rebecca Bibbs.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Should public school children wear uniforms??
We want to hear your view. Write now!