School uniforms

[peapod1980]

Our school is considering going to a formalized dress code next year; it is a public school, but there has been a lot of parental interest. One meeting was held with lots of parents supporting it, a second is scheduled tonight, and I am hearing the parents opposed are planning to make their voices heard this go-round. One parent is making the--I'm assuming common--argument that this route is more expensive because she'll have to buy 2 wardrobes. I'm of the mindset that uniforms must end up being less expensive in the long run, but I wouldn't be a parent who'd buy 2 complete wardrobes anyway. Anyone have experience or input with this? Responses before 6 p.m. CST, please.

[InletBchDweller]

Little ibd's school has uniforms that they buy from www.frenchtoast.com or if you go navy or khaki bottoms they sell things like this at kmart, target and walmart. I have found the frenchtoast shirts reasonable ($7-$10). Dont forget that you dont have to argue in the mornings about what to wear. It is done for you. As far as a second wardrobe, I just buy less play clothes....I love love love uniforms

[Cheering472]

I found it much cheaper with uniforms. Yes you still have to buy other clothes but even so we saved money. My kids loved them. I highly recommend the uniforms. They wore khaki or navy pants & skirts with oxford cloth shirts in white or powder blue. Easy and cheap. Target and JCPenney carried everything we needed.

[Jdarg]

Uniforms- I find it cheaper too. If the other parent is worried about the upfron cost, only buy 2-3 days worth and do the laundry during the week, then add more pieces gradually.

[Smiling JOe]

I attended private school and I recall the talk of going to uniforms. They were talking about us having to wear navy blazers and white button downs. We really disliked that. However, looking back, I think we students would have accepted kahki pants and a standard white or blue collered golf shirt.

I think parents will spend much more money on trendy school clothing if students are not required to have uniforms. Give the parents a guideline, and let them choose where they want to purchase their clothes. I also think one of the biggest distractions in school is trends set by kids fashions. Not only is it a distraction, but it is also a stressful event as a kid, trying to fit in by purchasing the "right" styles and brands. Not every kid's parents are able to afford the trendy stuff as the seasons change. You don't see the football players getting to choose their own styles, nor do you see that with any of the high school team sports. Keep it simple.

In summary, I am 100 % for school uniforms and I do not see how it costs more money. I think it will actually cost less. The one downside which I see from making the kids were uniforms is that it teaches them to follow the orders from the higher ups, walk the straight and narrow (discipline), and that can stifle free thinking, and be rather dangerous depending on who their leaders are in life.

[Jdarg]

SJ has a good point- uniforms truly "level out" the social and economic playing fields which sadly exist even as young as kindergarten thanks to the marketing efforts of retailers. Once middle school hits, the girls become consumed about the right clothes and accessories, and it really is a distraction that can be tempered a bit with uniforms.

[Smiling JOe]

The uniforms may also make outsiders who come onto school premises stand out a bit, so that it is easier to spot them and have them leave the property. (I'm referring to kids who don't belong at that particular school)

[beachmouse]

SJ has a good point- uniforms truly "level out" the social and economic playing fields which sadly exist even as young as kindergarten thanks to the marketing efforts of retailers. Once middle school hits, the girls become consumed about the right clothes and accessories, and it really is a distraction that can be tempered a bit with uniforms.

Though unless you mandate a single vendor for the uniforms, by the time they hit middle school, the girls are subtle enough to figure out whether the polo shirt came from Ralph Lauren or Walmart. Same goes for accessories and shoes, even if they're limited to specific types.

I went to an economically mixed K-8 Catholic school, and by third grade or so, you knew what the economic playing field was, even if it was sussing it out by things like what Carrie's mom brought in for a treat on her birthday.

[sunspotbaby]

I totally agree with you SJ. At the moment, I don't have children in school, but i remember going into South Walton High a few years ago and I was shocked that the girls wore super small skirts and tank tops . It was a far cry from what my son was used to seeing in school. He had absolutely no problem with it at all.
But i do think it's a distraction from education--looking at scantily clad young girls is not a real big help to an already struggling young man. And the pressure for girls is way up there already by that age too.

[Beachmom]

No complaints at all here. If it weren't for uniforms, I'd NEVER hear the end of request for "the Right" clothes!! As for coming from the same place, ECMS (tops) all come from the same place, as they do for my sister's kids in another district.
Speaking from a teacher's point of view, the kids were much better in uniforms when we made the change. Dress down days were crazy, the kids where more in a "play" mode than school mode. It really makes a difference.

It's just like many jobs require a certain degree of dress (not necessarily a uniform) when you get off, you change clothes. Change attitudes, work is work and then play is..........

[Jdarg]

Though unless you mandate a single vendor for the uniforms, by the time they hit middle school, the girls are subtle enough to figure out whether the polo shirt came from Ralph Lauren or Walmart. Same goes for accessories and shoes, even if they're limited to specific types.

I went to an economically mixed K-8 Catholic school, and by third grade or so, you knew what the economic playing field was, even if it was sussing it out by things like what Carrie's mom brought in for a treat on her birthday.

Yes, I agree Beachmouse that it does start to disintegrate as the kids get older, but still, at first glance, the kids look similar, and is still much better than no uniform policy.

Will's school in Louisville had 1300 kids from all over the city. The uniforms were the only constant - and thankfully they had that. Our principal there told me that the uniform policy was a disciplinary help as well- the ol' institutional concept, where there was a clear distinction between the students and the faculty.

[peapod1980]

Thanks for all the good input! I'm actually pro-uniform for lots of selfish reasons, first and foremost that my kids and I wouldn't have to think anymore about what to wear every day. L'il Pod #1 goes to uniforms next year when he enters high school, so it would be an easy transition for me to make the switch with all the kids in the same year.
beachmouse, you make a good point, albeit a sad one. I know there's some truth to what you're saying. I did some research this afternoon, and it's interesting--there doesn't seem to be any clearcut, across the board evidence that is strongly pro-uniform. It's anecdotal, and schools see varying results after implementing the policy. I still like it, though.

[Jdarg]

And look! We made your deadline with time to spare!! What other issues do you need help with today? We're your go-to group!!

[peapod1980]

And look! We made your deadline with time to spare!! What other issues do you need help with today? We're your go-to group!!

I know! Well, I definitely have issues...let me think about which other ones I might need to air today...

[Mermaid]

Thanks for all the good input! I'm actually pro-uniform for lots of selfish reasons, first and foremost that my kids and I wouldn't have to think anymore about what to wear every day. L'il Pod #1 goes to uniforms next year when he enters high school, so it would be an easy transition for me to make the switch with all the kids in the same year.
beachmouse, you make a good point, albeit a sad one. I know there's some truth to what you're saying. I did some research this afternoon, and it's interesting--there doesn't seem to be any clearcut, across the board evidence that is strongly pro-uniform. It's anecdotal, and schools see varying results after implementing the policy. I still like it, though.

This selfish mother says it was an absolute godsend having my children grow up in uniforms. Mornings are trying enough without worrying about clothing.

As to the "I have to buy two wardrobes" issue, that's a lot of hooey. Alex and Philippa made it through high school with exactly:

2 new pairs of uniform pants each year
2 new pairs of uniform polos each year
1 or 2 sweatshirts every other year (they don't wear out)

THAT'S IT. Tell me how this translates into two wardrobes. Gimme a break.

[ShallowsNole]

Sorta late here, but I have REALLY enjoyed three years of uniforms. With 16 regular school days left, I weep with fondness every time I wash a purple shirt.

[30A Skunkape]

River Otter told me to tell everyone else
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Uniforms

[InletBchDweller]

men!

River Otter told me to tell everyone else
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Uniforms

[Hop]

Teaching at a school with uniforms, it seems the kids really don't notice or mind the whole uniform thing. They still find ways to be creative and express themselves through their clothing. As a parent, it really makes our mornings easier.

[NewfieGirl]

I likey your tar, Hop!

[RiverOtter]

River Otter told me to tell everyone else
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Uniforms

You so beat me to this

[Hop]

I likey your tar, Hop!

[Lady D]

I don't have any school age kids but they started the school uniform route here about 3 years ago in the city schools. Seems to me alot easier and cheaper. Here most of the kids wear khaki or navy shorts or slacks, and wear white polo shirts. Very reasonably priced at Target or Walmart.

[John R]

You so beat me to this

doesn't mean we can't audition some more...

[Bob]

I attended private school and I recall the talk of going to uniforms. They were talking about us having to wear navy blazers and white button downs. We really disliked that. However, looking back, I think we students would have accepted kahki pants and a standard white or blue collered golf shirt.

I think parents will spend much more money on trendy school clothing if students are not required to have uniforms. Give the parents a guideline, and let them choose where they want to purchase their clothes. I also think one of the biggest distractions in school is trends set by kids fashions. Not only is it a distraction, but it is also a stressful event as a kid, trying to fit in by purchasing the "right" styles and brands. Not every kid's parents are able to afford the trendy stuff as the seasons change. You don't see the football players getting to choose their own styles, nor do you see that with any of the high school team sports. Keep it simple.

In summary, I am 100 % for school uniforms and I do not see how it costs more money. I think it will actually cost less. The one downside which I see from making the kids were uniforms is that it teaches them to follow the orders from the higher ups, walk the straight and narrow (discipline), and that can stifle free thinking, and be rather dangerous depending on who their leaders are in life.

Bingo, uniforms are about control.

[Jdarg]

Bingo, uniforms are about control.

I have no problem with the contol aspect- it is all about respecting authority, the rules, and elders. Many kids have no boundaries or control at home, and I don't think it is a good thing for the kids to be "on the same level" as their authority figures. Kids crave a structure and flounder without rules and order in place. I don't think anyone's freedom of expression or creativity is stifled because they have to wear a uniform, or because they have to respect someone in a position of authority. The kids who want to express themselves will do it in many ways other than their clothes, and if kids and parents think that school clothes are an important form of self-expression, then they aren't very creative to begin with!

[RiverOtter]

doesn't mean we can't audition some more...

Hmmmmmm............................... good point

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

[John R]

[Jdarg]

Guess y'all will start the cheerleader and naughty nurse threads next.

[Bob]

I have no problem with the contol aspect- it is all about respecting authority, the rules, and elders. Many kids have no boundaries or control at home, and I don't think it is a good thing for the kids to be "on the same level" as their authority figures. Kids crave a structure and flounder without rules and order in place. I don't think anyone's freedom of expression or creativity is stifled because they have to wear a uniform, or because they have to respect someone in a position of authority. The kids who want to express themselves will do it in many ways other than their clothes, and if kids and parents think that school clothes are an important form of self-expression, then they aren't very creative to begin with!

Uniforms are definitely good to supress the peer pressure of having designer clothes, but I disagree about structure. School is from top to bottom about rules and order, and it is a place where bored, creative kids end up mentally "in the corner" for the sake of assembly line "prepare for the state test" education. Uniforms are a powerful message of control and conformity, and are best used in religious schools, the military, and any business or government venue that deems it necessary for comensurate public perception. My wife has taught for almost 24 years as an elementary school teacher, 20 years in the same clasroom[talk about being in a rut!], and we have managed to raise 2 thoughtful, over-acheiving teenagers both of whom are model citizens in their classrooms. I cannot imagine that uniforms would have enhanced their education. At the same time, we have instilled in them, the profound skill of subtly questioning authority, not blindly following rules, and having a very healthy skepticism of many elders who are either "full of it" or who don't seem to have a grip on the chaotic, frenzied pace of modern society. Schools should be a place of learning, not a boot camp. With that said, I believe all parents should have a say in this matter, as everyone's situation cannot possibly be the same.

[Bob]

another brick in the wall

[Smiling JOe]

I'm sure the boys in SoWal would love to be able to wear shorts like these to school on those hot Spring days.





If these are the school girls, please let me go back in time. They didn't look like this when I was in school.

[Bob]

I'm sure the boys in SoWal would love to be able to wear shorts like these to school on those hot Spring days.





If these are the school girls, please let me go back in time. They didn't look like this when I was in school.

If these were your classmates, you wouldn't be able to stand up after the class bell rang.

[Smiling JOe]

Talk about a distraction from education... . Maybe all girls need to cover their heads like in Afganistan, so that we guys can focus on ... what was I talking about ?

[ktschris]

First of all, let me just say this post was way to long for me to read tonight....I get distracted very easy.....

Having said that...I will now weigh in on the uniform "debate".

My kids go to a Catholic school -- informs are required. I do not spend anymore on clothes then I would if my kids went to public school. Sure, they need the "trendy" clothes for the weekend, but for what I spend for school uniforms...doesn't even come close to having them needing those items 5 days a week. My 13 year old gets by with 2 pair of pants (one day he has gym) and my 6 year has 2 jumpers, but 1 has been out of commission since a button came off a month ago (I'm not much of a seamstress, but I do stand by staples and duct tape).

Having said all of this, the one thing I have experienced after 8 years of uniforms, the kids will still find their own way of being unique. The biggest issue we face every morning is socks. Believe it or not, it can make or break your day!

Not sure I made a point, sorry for the ramble, I guess that's why I prefer to lurk

[RiverOtter]

If these were your classmates, you wouldn't be able to stand up after the class bell rang.

[dunelover]

Just thought I would toss in this link for a uniform supplier http://www.parkersu.com/index.htmlthat one of our local schools uses. My friends actually have a sale at their school where parents can buy used uniforms form prior students---nice as well so they can have many choices.

[Cil]

Having said all of this, the one thing I have experienced after 8 years of uniforms, the kids will still find their own way of being unique.

May 11th will be my baby son's last day of high school, he graduates the 21st, and I will officially be done worrying about all this stuff.
While I agree that uniforms are a method of control, I think it's true that no matter what kids wear to school, they find a way to show their individuality (such as it is.)
One day at my kid's old school in Denver, I walked up the steps and saw a girl wearing kitty ears. Everything else she had on was normal. She just had on a pair of kitty ears. I'm sure many would see no great benefit to this, yet I so no great harm.

[Mermaid]

May 11th will be my baby son's last day of high school, he graduates the 21st, and I will officially be done worrying about all this stuff.
While I agree that uniforms are a method of control, I think it's true that no matter what kids wear to school, they find a way to show their individuality (such as it is.)
One day at my kid's old school in Denver, I walked up the steps and saw a girl wearing kitty ears. Everything else she had on was normal. She just had on a pair of kitty ears. I'm sure many would see no great benefit to this, yet I so no great harm.

Cil, Philippa graduates the day before. We'll both be empty-nesters together!

[Cil]

Cil, Philippa graduates the day before. We'll both be empty-nesters together!

High Five!

[Miss Kitty]

Cil, Philippa graduates the day before. We'll both be empty-nesters together!

High Five!

...welcome to the club ladies!!! It will be a pleasure to have you!

Congrats!!!!

[Cheering472]

How can we be lonely with so many empty nests?? Congraulations everyone!