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Mandatory uniforms in schools vs. some kind of ‘dress code’
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The issue of school uniforms has been a contentious topic where opinions range from
vehement opposition to staunch support. The number of schools adopting school uniforms rose
from 12% in 1999-2000 (Messitt, 2013, p. 56). Deane Samantha, in her article, Dressing
Diversity: Politics of Difference and the Case of School Uniforms," published in 2015 by the
Philosophical Studies in Education, opposes mandatory school uniforms as they limit the right to
expression and create a façade of equality in a society that is highly diversified. Conversely,
Wendell Anderson, in his article, “School Dress Codes and Uniform Policies," published by
Policy Report in 2002 proposes the adoption of mandatory school uniforms as it improves the
learning climate, enhances school safety, reduces stress on families and promotes higher self-
esteem among students. With more school districts calling for mandatory school uniforms, a
middle ground can be reached by formulating a school uniform code that balances the drawbacks
and benefits presented in the debate.
The benefits of mandatory school uniforms in schools are well presented by Anderson
(2002). According to Anderson's policy report, mandatory school uniforms enhance school
safety. Clarksville-Montgomery County School System (2001, as cited in Anderson, 2022, p.5)
notes that there is a connection between school violence and clothing styles. Results from a
standardized survey in the Clarksville-Montgomery County (TN) School System on dress code
issues revealed that having a dress code reduced the chances of gun violence and gang affiliation.
School uniforms have also reduced peer pressure as they conceals the income levels of students,
acting as an equalizer (Anderson, 2002, p.6). Students can also focus on learning instead of what
to wear, thus improving school performance. Families also support mandatory uniforms as they
save money on buying the latest fashions and lessen the time needed to prepare students in
school as the clothes are predetermined (p.6).
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Conversely, Deanne (2015, p.115) believes that enforcing school uniforms creates a false
sense of reality and equality. According to Deanne (2015), schools should mirror society and the
differences that exist. Inequalities exist in society due to capitalism, classism and other factors.
Therefore, schools should allow students to understand the inequalities from a young age instead
of promoting a façade that they are all equal, as portrayed by school uniforms (p. 111). School
uniforms should be dropped as they limit the student’s ability to confront the differences in
others and humanity.
Both sides of the argument make credible arguments on the school uniform debate.
Anderson (2002) proposes mandatory school uniforms as they promote school safety, reduce
peer pressure, improve overall school performance and align with family values. On the other
hand, Deanne (2015, p.111) argues against school uniforms as they deny students the opportunity
to confront the humanity and inequality that exist on earth. A middle ground can be reached by
formulating flexible uniform policies that allow for person expression within stipulated
guidelines of what constitutes uniform.
As the debate on mandatory school dress codes vs. some kind of uniform intensifies, the
government and other stakeholders need to formulate a policy that is aligned with the benefits
and drawbacks discussed above. The formulated policies should be regularly reviewed to
understand the impact on academic performance, student behavior and how students adjust to the
real world.
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References
Anderson, W. (2002). School Dress Codes and Uniform Policies.?Policy Report.
Clarksville-Montgomery County School System (2001). “Dress Code Update.” September 26.
http:// admin.cmcss.net/Dress Code/dresscode.html
Deane, S. (2015). Dressing Diversity: Politics of Difference and the Case of School
Uniforms.?Philosophical Studies in Education,?46, 111-120.
Messitt, M. (2013). Buttoned down: Are School Uniform Policies a Perfect Fit for All
Students?.?Teaching Tolerance,?52(43), 56-57.
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Reflection Questions
1. How does the Rogerian model of argument help you better understand the topic
that’s being discussed? Why is it a good practice to acknowledge both sides of the
argument?"(3-4 sentences)
The Rogerian model of argument requires one to understand the arguments presented by
both sides. The arguments are taken with equal weight. It is a good practice to acknowledge both
sides of the argument as they are validated and one can formulate a middle point.
2. How might the Rogerian approach help you gain insight into your own
argumentative essay?"(2-3 sentences)
The Rogerian approach helped me understand the importance of appreciating both sides of an
argument and this will help in my argumentative essay.
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