Uniforms: Helpful or just a Hassle?

The benefits of school uniforms for students

Caption: These PACA elementary students wear different uniform designs that have been offered in the past few years. [by Bruna Marujo]

By Samuel Volkart

The debate over whether school uniforms are beneficial has been going on for many years, with strong opinions on both sides. People who support uniforms argue that uniforms promote equality, discipline, and a stronger sense of community.  Meanwhile, critics say that uniforms take away students’ ability to show their personalities and don’t really fix the bigger problems in schools. 

The debate was removed from PACA campus for many years until recent years when basic school uniforms (shirts and jackets) were added to the requirements for elementary students to wear at PACA.  In the 2023-2024 school year, all secondary students were also required to wear a PACA shirt with their normal school attire.  

Since then, new designs of shirts, shorts, pants, dresses (for elementary students) and jackets are being designed for students to choose from. Uniforms for P.E. and swimming classes became mandatory for all elementary and middle school students, as well. 

In spite of their recent inclusion to the student handbook and student wardrobe, the purpose still remains the same, to respond to the weaknesses of the school dress code as they were currently being addressed when students returned to in-person classes after the COVID years. 

Ultimately, I believe that the benefits of school uniforms outweigh their drawbacks because they create a more focused and fair learning environment.

One of the great advantages of school uniforms is that they reduce social and economic pressures among students. In many schools where uniforms are not required, I have observed that clothing often becomes a symbol of status, dividing students by style or affordability. 

In my opinion, school uniforms put all students on the same level of dress code requirement, allowing students to be judged based on their character and performance rather than their wardrobe. This sense of equality creates inclusion and reduces bullying related to appearance.

PACA’s school counselor, Mindy Swisher, says that uniforms only have benefits. 

“The possibilities of bullying are lower and you don’t have to worry about brand or being left out. It also creates an environment where unity is the main goal,” said Swisher.

Even the word “uniform” has a strong connection with the word “unity” as they are both related to ‘oneness’ or being part of the same whole. According to the Learning, Inc. website, “From creating harmony in ‘unison’ to encompassing all in ‘universal,’ this root forms the backbone of words that emphasize singularity, unity, and inclusivity.”

Also, my research shows that uniforms encourage discipline and help students focus on academics. When everyone dresses similarly, the distractions caused by fashion trends are smaller. Uniforms also promote a sense of belonging and school pride, as students feel part of a unified community. This can improve behavior and strengthen school spirit, as found in many studies on this subject. 

Critics argue that uniforms limit self-expression, but students still have many ways to express their individuality through their actions, ideas, and achievements. Clothing is only one of the many forms of self-expression, and learning to conform in certain places can prepare students for professional environments later.

In conclusion, while school uniforms may not solve every educational challenge, I believe that they can provide equality, and a sense of shared values that contribute to a positive and productive school culture.