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Essay / Why should public schools require uniforms? - 773
For many Americans, the idea of school uniforms seems like an old-fashioned concept. School uniforms have always been a controversial topic in the United States due to the culture adopted by most Americans. Unless a child attends a private educational institution, wearing specific uniforms is not practiced by children. A common argument today is whether uniforms should be mandatory in the public school system. Why do more than half of public schools now enforce dress codes (Toppo)? There are many benefits to having uniforms in schools. Uniforms in public schools decrease economic problems for schools and parents, reduce social barriers between students, encourage discipline, and create a safe environment. Uniform policies also result in fewer economic problems for schools and parents. They reduce possible harassment based on differences in economic status among students. Not all students have wealthy parents, and due to the differences in what a student can wear, they are subject to bullying and/or harassment. School uniforms benefit all families by reducing clothing costs (Firmin, Smith, and Perry, 143-168). This is very important for low-income and low-budget families because uniforms would save money. Since the uniform increases a student's effectiveness, funding could be directly used in educational programs rather than disciplinary and administrative functions. Therefore, school clothing policies benefit schools and parents economically. Uniforms in the public school system have reduced social barriers between students. Uniforms promote equality for all students, regardless of income or status. There would be absolutely no controversy over who wears the most fashionable clothes at school... middle of paper ... Stephen. “School dress codes are necessary and constitutional.” Student rights. Ed. Jamuna Carroll. San Diego: Greenhaven Press, 2005. Opposing Views. Rep. from “Student Dress Policies: The Success of School Uniforms and Dress Codes.” Results (May 2001). Opposing viewpoints in context. Internet. November 22, 2013. Firmin, Michael, Suzanne Smith and Lynsey Perry. “School uniforms: a qualitative analysis of goals and achievements in two Christian schools.” Journal of Christian Education Research 15.2 (2006): 143-168. Academic research completed. Internet. November 22, 2013. Toppo, Greg. "What to wear? Schools are increasingly making this decision." The United States Today. Np, August 18, 2013. Web. November 22, 2013. Wilson, Amy M. “Public School Dress Codes: The Constitutional Debate.” Academic research completed. Brigham Young University Education & Law Journal, Spring 1998. Web. November 22. 2013.