School Uniforms

Argumentation/Persuasion research
School Uniforms
Media stories about a nationwide school epidemic, in which assaults on teachers are frequent and students are routinely killed over designer clothing, have been constant over the past few years. These reports have placed pressure on schools and politicians to act quickly, before the situation gets out of control. In these post-Columbine days, educators from the Bible Belt to gang-infested inner cities are asking students to wear uniforms as one way to help all around. Uniforms can curb fashion fads that stigmatize poor students and strap parents’ income. They are a visible sign that public schools expect more of students. Requiring uniforms is also a natural step beyond requiring uniforms for marching bands, athletes, and cheerleaders. At the least, they help parents get children out the door faster in the morning. Uniforms (or the lesser alternative of strict dress codes) may reduce violence and possibly raise safety in...