Uniforms an
idea worth
exploring

Uniforms are not a cure-all for problems in the schools, but many schools that have tried uniforms say they help restore one level of decorum and discipline that’s been missing.

There are many studies about the efficacy of school uniforms and equal numbers of conclusions. Supporters of school uniforms must concede that data doesn’t definitively assert that uniforms will improve test grades or reduce discipline issues.

But some school systems swear by them. The school system in Richmond County, a rural county not unlike Columbus County, is one. Administrators there say there has been noticeable improvement in school pride, decorum and discipline, and that they can’t imagine going back.

Because of the similarities in the two systems, we suggest that uniforms be tried here. Whiteville City Schools has a dress code, but it is a nightmare to enforce. Teachers must spend too much time having to police the dress code because students, particularly at the high school and Central, are always testing the boundaries. Uniforms won’t eliminate this problem, but enforcement will be easier.

One argument against uniforms is that they stifle individualism, but is individualism best expressed through clothes or by personality?

Another argument against uniforms is that they will hurt local businesses, but the school board could give contractual priorities to local businesses and not Wal-mart or Target.

Supporters of uniforms say they add another layer of structure in a learning environment that is increasingly chaotic. Kids don’t have to worry about what they’re going to wear every morning or if what they have on will be the subject of ridicule or admiration. The distraction is removed.

Will school uniforms decrease gang activity? Maybe, maybe not. Will they increase test scores? Same answer.

The only way to find out is to see for ourselves. If adopted, it must be approached with an open mind by both opponents and proponents.

At the public forums, the level of opposition to uniforms increased as the grade level increased. We suggest starting a test program, preferably at Central, Edgewood or both.

One thing is for certain, however; discipline and decorum must be maintained in a functioning school, and few can deny that some of the clothes of today’s students are a distraction.

Discipline is why the military has a strict uniform policy, why courts require attorneys to wear suits. It’s all about maintaining the structure and respect of these institutions.

Should institutions of learning require anything less?