Some schools are making the switch to a stricter dress code, because they believe it will have a positive effect on the educational experience. Meanwhile, there are others who simply do not see the point and let the drawbacks be known. The following is a closer look at these pros and cons.
List of Pros of School Dress Code
1. Increased Safety.
One of the primary reasons for the switch to public school dress codes is the safety of the students. It has been estimated that over 100,000 guns make their way into American public schools each day, which has forced more administrators to mandate that a student’s belt line is exposed at all times. This keeps students from being able to hide firearms in their clothing.
2. Less Theft.
When children are allowed to wear what they want, a certain amount of jealousy and envy can bubble up to the surface. As a result, children are routinely robbed of their expensive sneakers or gaudy designer clothing. When all students are required to wear the same uniform, this greatly decreases the chances of theft, robbery or any related crimes.
3. Reduced Teasing.
It’s no secret that kids can be cruel, especially when it comes to teasing their peers who wear outdated clothing or stuff that has gone out of style. According to studies, school dress codes significantly reduce the level of teasing that students experience and also has a positive effect on the educational process.
List of Cons of School Dress Code
1. Lack of Real World Preparation.
The majority of modern workplaces do not rely on dress codes, they expect their employees to choose their own clothing and work alongside one another without incident. By implementing dress codes, schools are not preparing their students for the future. Forcing students to adhere to a dress code can have the undesired effect of reducing a child’s ability to adapt.
2. Cultural Values Are Diminished.
In the modern world, an American public school’s student body typically consists of a unique melting pot. Kids from all different cultural backgrounds come together to learn and socialize. When dress codes are instituted, this diversity is diminished and kids do not receive the same opportunity to learn about the cultures of their fellow students.
3. Individuality Falls By The Wayside.
For some children, picking out the clothes that they will wear to school is the highlight of their day. It is one of the only chances that they have to express themselves and make their own choices. Making the switch to public school dress codes quashes a child’s chance to develop into an individual and teaches them that it is more important to fit in than to stand out.
