Archives: FAQ

Voluntary school uniform policies often originate at individual schools and/or with the PTA. These policies let parents choose whether and in what circumstances their children will wear school uniforms. There is no reprimand for students who do not wear uniforms. Voluntary policies often involve fewer legal issues, including the requirement to buy uniforms for students who cannot afford them.

Mandatory school uniform policies are adopted by the school district and usually require all students at participating schools to wear specific clothes and colors at all times. In most public schools, these policies have provisions for students (with parental consent) to opt out of the uniform requirements due to religious or health reasons. Mandatory polices without an “opt-out” could be vulnerable legal challenges. To view the government’s Manual on School Uniforms, go to http://www.ed.gov/updates/uniforms.html.

Many educators, administrators, parents and public minded citizens, are aware that some of our public school systems are in a dispirited and discouraged state. Violence, poor attendance, disruptive behavior and disheartening attitudes stand in the way of today’s education. Sweeping changes are needed to return our educational standards to worldwide competitive levels. Our schools should once again become the safe havens and community centers for the education and the development of our students that they once were. Our children need the self-esteem, purpose, hope and security associated with growing up in a healthy learning environment. Implementation of a school uniform program can help meet these needs. The reasons, clear and diverse, are summarized below under Benefits of a School Uniform Program.