The Debate on Uniforms in the USA Goes On

Thursday 15th of January 2009 04:20:15 PM

A small county in Tennessee in the USA recently instituted a school uniform program for elementary through high school student in the public school system. The decision to require students to wear uniforms was met with outrage by most parents who complained of everything from cost to loss of individuality.

After many public school board meetings, and behind closed door maneuverings, parents were finally appeased when the school board developed a variety of options for students to choose from. The deciding factor in agreeing to the uniform for many parents was the availability of comfortable clothing that demonstrated school pride.

Susan Ramsey, an elementary school teacher with children who attend the local high school, stated in an interview with the local paper that her children had originally been opposed to wearing school uniforms. “I think they envisioned the typical coat and tie that is required at many private schools, you know, the ‘old school’ school uniforms you see in movies –like Harry Potter.”

The actual uniforms chosen by a team of parents, student leaders, and school officials included khaki pants, skirts, or Bermuda shorts with a t-shirt or Polo shirt. The deciding factor for many students was each school’s logo prominently displayed on the shirt. The shirts were cotton, comfortable, and easy to care for which pleased parents; the logo on printed t-shirts gave the students a sense of school pride.

More and more school uniforms are moving from stiff and uncomfortable dress clothing to casual t-shirts and Polo shirts with the school’s logo. This move is appealing to everyone involved. The uniforms are less expensive, do not require dry cleaning, and give the students a sense of identity. “Our students are not embarrassed to be seen in these uniforms,” says Susan Ramsey. “And the fact that they boost school spirit with the logo is really cool.”