School Uniforms Pros And Cons

The idea of school uniforms evokes strong reactions from many people in Ontario. Many see uniforms as a method of stealing a student’s creativity, whereas some look at uniforms as the solution to several social, economic and academic conflicts. Parents, teachers and school administrators all want schools to focus on education as the sole purpose of school, making casual attire unjustified as it creates distractions that undermine that purpose. The arguments, however, demonstrate that implementing school uniforms is beneficial to the educational system as they contribute to the establishment of a more productive learning environment. This is evident in a variety of areas, namely, in a reduction in student distractions, causing an increased

Schools utilize mascots, colours and school spirit events to foster a collective identity as a proud member of a school community. Uniforms are a highly visible symbol that identifies students as members of these important communities. Where uniforms are not present, students are able to distinguish themselves based on socio-economic class. Wealthy students can wear designer clothing and exclude, if they choose, those students who cannot afford such brands. This compromises the efforts of a school to establish an inclusive community. Uniforms prevent such distinctions from being made and further emphasize the common identity, goal and purpose of the student society as an inclusive community. Uniforms also tend to be conservative in nature as they are in passive colours and modest in their presentation by covering much of a person’s skin. Schools sometimes have difficulty managing the sexualized nature of some students’ dress. Common school attire eliminates the need for concern around inadequate or provocative clothing. Furthermore, uniforms prevent deviant sub-groups, such as gangs or cliques, from identifying themselves and bolstering their existence. These sub-groups use clothing or colours to identify members and, which, in turn, endangers other members of the collective group. Uniforms, again, can prevent this detrimental environment from arising and help to establish an inclusive, safe and productive learning environment for all students regardless of background, wealth, gender or