Uniforms and Dress Codes Maxwell Gardner Mary Loveley Aaron Rudnick Bill Wilson

What’s the Issue? School uniforms and dress codes have long been the topic of Many schools across America, both public and private, have imposed dress policies with varying levels of scrutiny. Although school uniforms were once a means of distinguishing one's social status, they have now garnered support as a way to eliminate superficial displays of economical inequities. Still, others feel that the implementation of school uniforms is a breach of freedom of expression. There are many individuals with conflicting viewpoints concerning this multifaceted issue. One must consider the legal, academic, behavioral, and economic implications of dress policies before constructing an informed opinion. In this presentation the issue of dress policies and school uniforms will be examined thoroughly, with all aspects considered.

ews/education/081810merits-of-school- uniforms

Academics No solid evidence of academic achievement enhancement Lessens distractions for students = more focus on academics

Behavior Varying Viewpoints Little quantitative data Dress = Outward Expression of Values and Personality Vulgar T-Shirts = Violent Behavior and Poor Attendance Fashion-Conscious People Gang Behaviors

Behavior (cont.) "I’m concerned that we continue to create non democratic sites and policies in our public schools and then expect children to learn what it means to live and function within a democratic society. Uniforms may just be another simplistic, quick-fix attempt to affect behaviors that are highly complex,”

Economics (Turkish Women) Many Turkish women of Islam wear a traditional headscarf as part of their religious beliefs. However there is a ban in Turkish Universities on headscarves, keeping women out. There is a correlation between how traditional a Turkish Islamic woman appears is comparison to her socioeconomic status. There have been claims of discrimination through the dress code.

Economics (Legal Battles) These are what many schools truly fear when it comes to determining dress code policy. These are costly, drawn-out events where even if the school wins, it may still lose money and will definitely lose time. There is a greater chance of legal action taking place against the school anytime the dress code policy of a school is changed.

Economics (Draw of Uniforms) These are what many schools truly fear when it comes to determining dress code policy. These are costly, drawn-out events where even if the school wins, it may still lose money and will definitely lose time. There is a greater chance of legal action taking place against the school anytime the dress code policy of a school is changed.

Most parents foot the bill for school uniforms however, so it is their input that schools tend to deem critical.

Economics (Parents’ Money) An “initial modest outlay” is all that is needed to cover the costs of purchasing and upkeep. The cost of the clothes are generally less expensive than any “casual” brand. The durability of the clothes is higher. The long-term results in terms of school solidarity and decorum are worth the cost.

Economics (However) The initial implementation cost can be heavy. Depending on whether the clothes must come from a specific uniform shop/company can also play a huge role The more standardized the uniform was, the more it costs. Students still wear clothes outside of school. The policy is cheaper for girl students than boy students.

There is a correlation between the economic state of a school and the amount of consideration in implementing uniforms for said school.

Legal Issues Legal Claims –First Amendment –Fourteenth Amendment Court Decisions –Tinker v Des Moines Policy Making

Legal Issues (cont.) Five Alternatives –No dress code –General Goals at District level –Itemized dress code –Voluntary Policy –Opt-out provision

Legal Issues (cont) “Any dress restriction that infringes on a student's First Amendment rights must be justified by a showing that the student's attire materially disrupts school operations, infringes on the rights of others at the school, or otherwise interferes with any basic educational mission of the school” – Kimberley Grantham

Our Conclusions While there might not be solid evidence that dress codes or uniforms affect academics or behavior of students, there is a positive economic outcome in implementing them that is both legal and leaves room for self-expression.