Pros and Cons of School Uniforms

Uniformity was once the ideal, but it is now a threat to freedom of expression. The school uniform, intended to both simplify a part of a child's life and to end conflict, is a topic of much debate. It does not have to be such a tough issue; however, it is more a matter of saying yes or no. The same rule applies to all other types of clothing and forms of expression.

Best dressed for much less

The school uniform, occasionally viewed as overpriced and inconvenient, can actually save a parent a fortune on clothing. Rather than indulging in a new school wardrobe, the school uniform costs a fraction of that. Uniforms often include options. If a parent purchases all of them and a few extra, the uniform should last a few years unless the uniform changes. Not to mention that it answers the question of what to wear everyday.

No room for expression

Schools that have a uniform policy are often strict about it. Although this can create a sense of fairness, it is also restrictive on a child's creativity. People can most easily create an identity through their clothing. Losing this privilege is like agreeing to conform like everyone else. This can make the child more easily influenced or more rebellious.

The school uniform is sometimes a burden or a blessing, but it is always an option. If a child has no choice but to wear a uniform, then they have a choice in how to wear it such as a skirt or slacks. If they do not wish to wear one, then they can petition to remove it or attempt to change schools. Although this seems extreme, the school uniform is not a debacle. Anything is an issue, until people learn how to both understand and correct it.