When you think of school uniforms, you may think of private schools. But now, more public schools are starting to implement them, but why? Uniforms are gaining popularity because they improve student performance, relieve administrators of worrying about dress code violations, and help families experiencing financial difficulties.

   According to UC High’s Handbook, the dress code, or lack thereof, is meant to “…ensure a positive teaching and learning environment for all students and staff, [while] provid[ing] enough flexibility to accommodate personal taste in order that teaching and learning continues to be the focus of the classrooms.” While UC High has a very lenient dress code, there are still some things that are off limits, such as violent themes, visible underwear, or anything supporting drugs, alcohol, hate speech, and more. While it may be a nice idea to say that not having a dress code allows students to express themselves better, it may be putting student safety in jeopardy.

   Not only do uniforms help students stay focused in the classroom, but they may also make a school have a safer environment. Color association is a large part of gang recognition, and according to an article about how uniforms help limit gang violence, “School uniforms in particular may be a useful way to reduce both gang activity and negative outcomes associated with gangs. Similar findings were not present for dress code policies or gang prevention programs.” Since all students wear the same clothing and colors when uniforms are implemented, problems with gang violence lessen (cepa.stanford.edu).

   According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, school uniforms began in England and were implemented at boarding schools and schools with higher prestige, and so were often considered a sign of wealth and status. Schools that implemented them saw a change in the students. They saw less misconduct in the children and also saw that the focus was less on who was wearing the most expensive outfit and more about their studies (britannica.com).

   Another advantage uniforms offer is that they may decrease the financial burden of back-to-school shopping. Clothes are expensive, and with children and teens continuing to grow out of them, the price tags can add up. According to an article about uniforms, they can act as ‘social camouflage’ which can, “…take away the pressure to wear expensive labels” (theconversation.com). Uniforms can provide your child with daily clothing and can help remove stigma if you aren’t wearing name-brand clothing. It is worth noting that while some schools may charge more for particular uniforms and/or patches, many schools offer assistance through uniform exchanges and vouchers to those who may need it. In addition, many schools allow uniforms that can be purchased for very reasonable prices at stores such as Target and Walmart.

   The largest critique of uniforms is that they limit personal expression. According to an article discussing dress codes, an open policy allows individuality, which may be harder when in uniforms. Along with that, clothing can also be a way to embrace your diversity and culture. The article states, “People have different beliefs, religions, and backgrounds, and all that diversity is reflected in their clothing.” Although free dress is a great way to express yourself as an individual, a dress code ensures school safety, respect for your peers, and supports the values your school embraces. A dress code can also “…teach our kids how to dress professionally” (changeagent.nelrc.org).

   Junior Natasha Reichard went to a middle school where uniforms were mandatory. She expressed that although uniforms allow a feeling of community, free dress allows freedom and creativity. Along with that, the other cons of uniforms are “having strict [skirt/short] lengths to adhere to, and always being too cold or too hot because you can’t wear [non-issued] jackets or shorts,” Reichard said. Uniforms aren’t very customizable, which may make it harder to be comfortable.

   While free dress codes can offer some self-expression, uniforms offer safety, focus, and ease. By setting clear expectations, schools help students present themselves professionally, reduce distractions, and foster a sense of unity, showing that a dress code isn’t just about clothing, but about preparing students for success.