School Uniforms
Throughout the state of California, the disputes continue over whether school uniforms have a place in the public school system and whether there are positive results to wearing school uniforms. The public school uniform conflict has not only been discussed within each school, but also on television, radio and even within the judicial system.
One of the most promising arguments against wearing uniforms in the public school system is the violation of the First Amendment: nothing is more basic and precious for Americans than the freedom of speech and expression. Students have very little say in the daily routine of their lives, though deciding what to wear that day is one of the few methods students have to control their lives. Claims have been made that school uniforms suffocate students inner creativity and enforce conformity rather than promote individuality.
Legally, however, schools can require uniforms. The court case of American civil Liberties Union vs. Long Beach Unified School District concluded that under California's school uniform law, school districts may require school uniforms providing that there is adequate notice, uniform assistance for disadvantaged students, and an exemption procedure.
In defense of uniforms, they do not have to be strict, but rather can help meet the students' psychological needs in clothing that would give consideration to the sensitivity of body image. For example, some students may prefer baggy clothing to shield or conceal the imperfect body, while others prefer a slimmer fit. The styles could be different, but the color, fabric, and basic pattern would remain the same for all students.
Uniform wear can remove the distraction of societal status symbols, provide relief from competition for fashion and peer pressure, and create more equality between the more wealthy and less wealthy students. Uniforms can provide guidelines to express individuality and to focus on school subjects, inner self, family values, and...
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