Undeniably, school uniforms have been in existence for a good number of years now. Initially, they were common in private grade schools as well as high schools. However, the number of public schools implementing the policy of school uniforms has been increasing gradually. The issue of school uniforms can be a very contentious topic particularly among learners who are not ready to lose their freedom of choosing their own clothing. Nevertheless, once this policy is implemented even the learners come to appreciate the advantages of uniforms.
Firstly, Sonal (2010) argues that, one of the benefits of school uniforms is that it instills a sense of equality among the students. Arguably, due to their social status, some students go through terrible experiences of teasing, social difficulty, and violence. In most cases, social status is portrayed by the way students dress. Due to economic difficulties, most parents cannot manage to pay for the latest fashions for their kids. Children with a low income family background get shunned by classmates with a well-off background, due to the fact that they do not seem to be “cool” in terms of dressing. However, with school uniforms, it is not possible to know the economic background of students as they dress in similar clothing.
Therefore, the issue of fashion does not arise among students as they dress uniformly.Secondly, school uniforms enhance safety in schools. Lanclos (2009). Asserts that, implementation of school uniform policy will create safer school environment. The requirement for students to be dressed uniformly plays a crucial role in eradicating gang attires from schools. Additionally, it reduces the rates of robbery among students who might be tempted to fit other students’ “cool” mode of dressing. Moreover, school uniforms reduce the chances of students carrying around guns within the school compound.
Thirdly, is the issue of simplicity. According to Crawford (2010), it has been observed that it is easier to control and enforce school uniform policy as compared to moderate dress code. It also makes it easier for the school management to identify nonstudents as well as to track students during field trips and other school events. Besides, the routine for both the students and parents is simplified by the implementation of school uniform policy. Students spend minimum time in deciding what to wear. It is also easier for parents to do shopping for student clothing.
Finally, though contentious more especially among students, school uniforms have been found to be advantageous. Arguably, they help create equality among students, promote safety in schools, and enhance the sense of simplicity.
References
Crawford, N. (2010). The Advantages & Disadvantages of School Uniforms. Retrieved on 24th
April 2011 from http://www.ehow.com/list_5950721_advantages-disadvantages-school-uniforms.html
Lanclos, J. (2009). What Are the Advantages for School Uniforms? Retrieved on 24th April 2011
from http://www.ehow.com/list_6002663_advantages-school-uniforms_.html?ref=Track2&utm_source=ask
Sonal, P. (2010). Benefits of School Uniforms. Retrieved on 24th April 2011 from
http://www.buzzle.com/articles/benefits-of-school-uniforms.html
