School uniforms limit self-expression and restrain our freedom to express our originality.They began in England, when upper class private and preparatory schools required students to wear uniforms. Without uniform codes, students will have less insecurities and fear on their appearances. The prices of school uniforms puts students at risk of embarrassment and bullying. I chose this issue because I want to learn if school uniform increase students’ academic performance.
School uniforms are inappropriate. Individualism is an important right that Americans cherish. The First Amendment states that the people have the freedom of speech and creativity, which we can voice our opinions (Martelle, “A Plea Against Uniformity, a Cry for Self-Expression: Will School…”). In 1222, England required students to wear robe-like outfits known as “cappa clausa.” Uniforms were worn in prestigious schools because they are considered formal. Their intentions are to give the school an identity and unity (Meleen, “School Uniforms Throughout History”). Although school uniforms provide equality among students, it does not solve the real issues of bullying. Wearing school uniforms does not decrease the percentage and likelihood of bullying. Often bullies will find another flaw in a student to criticize. Wearing the same clothes often lead to comparison between the students, in which creates drama and pressure (Martelle, “A Plea Against Uniformity, a Cry for Self-Expression: Will School…”). They force students to abide with the rules and does not provide equity.
Schools should not adopt dress codes for students. Individual appearances greatly influences one’s culture and traditions. It is difficult for school uniforms to compromise with all traditions and religions that exist around the world. Uniform rules are targeted at schools with a majority of low-income or minority students. This financial requirement places difficulties on low-income families, who cannot fully afford and support their children’s necessities and the replacement of new uniforms. David Brunsma, a Virginia Tech sociologist concluded through his research that school uniforms unsuccessfully refine a student’s confidence and education, thus proving to be ineffective at raising student’s academic performance (Murtha, “Debate Over School Uniforms Rages On”). Therefore, school uniforms should be prohibited because the definition of diversity fades away.
School uniforms can further damage the schools’ environment. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention conducted a survey in 2000, which they concluded that 10% of high schools and 20% of elementary schools had mandatory uniform requirements (ProQuest, “At Issue: School Uniforms”). Since Wallenberg High School is a public school, our school board does not require uniforms. By removing uniform policies in San Francisco Unified School District schools, it give students the abilities to express their personalities and culture. With different cultures and religions at schools, students are able to educate themselves with different knowledge from their peers. Students are given the freedom to wear clothes that are suitable for their personality.
School uniforms unsuccessfully refine a student’s confidence and individuality. Uniform policies/rules are the ultimate source of limitation to self appearance and statement. Other schools should reconsider the diversities within school, they should be aware of the student’s ethnicities entering their school. Different religions have different clothing styles, it is the responsibility that schools respect the student’s’ religions. In conclusion, victims who wore school uniforms often experience bullying despite similar outfits, thus proving no positive outcomes from wearing uniforms.
Citations:
ProQuest Staff. “At Issue: School Uniforms.” ProQuest LLC. 2015: n.pag. SIRS Issues Researcher. Web. 15 Oct. 2015.
Murtha, Jack. “Debate Over School Uniforms Rages On.” The Record. 07 Jun. 2015: L.3. SIRS Issues Researcher. Web. 08 Oct. 2015.
Martelle, Victor. “A Plea Against Uniformity, a Cry for Self-Expression: Will School…” University Wire. 09 Sep. 2014: n.p. SIRS Issues Researcher.Web. 08 Oct. 2015.
Meleen, Michele, M.S.Ed. “School Uniforms Throughout History.”LoveToKnow. LoveToKnow Corp., n.d. Web. 19 Oct. 2015.
A perspective by Anna Wu
Raoul Wallenberg High School 