The debate about whether should students be mandated to wear uniforms is a question as old as time, the clash between expression and individuality vs. a stronger sense of community. Historically, uniforms have been for the wealthy, being mostly implemented within private schools. As times change, more schools around the world are adopting school uniform mandates. So with all this being said, one remaining question is this, should Boyertown implement its own uniform policy? In my opinion, the best answer to this question is a resounding yes.

To be clear confusion, we have to know the difference between a uniform mandate and a strict dress code. Boyertown, as of now, has a dress code. Which is a code of conduct that adds restrictions to what students are allowed to wear, but does not dictate exactly what they have to wear. This code can be found here, but you may also locate it through BASH’s website. 

School uniforms, on the other hand, are a set pair of clothes. Usually including different summer and winter wear, these outfits are required to every student to wear. Typically, students will wear collared, buttoned shirts, with a tie for boys and a bowtie for girls, worn with khaki trousers, and a belt, depending on the age of the school’s student body.

I think we should have school uniforms at Boyertown because studies have shown numerous positive outcomes due to uniforms. Uniforms also increase a student’s sense of cohesion with their peers, making them feel a part of a larger whole. The same way wearing school colors may bring about a sense of pride for your school. 

Adding a uniform policy might increase a student’s preparedness for the world after school. Students may develop a better work ethic and understanding about formal dress in a professional setting. A uniform policy would allow for a fairer dress code where no one feels as though they’ve been unfairly written up.

Some people who are against a uniform policy would argue that expression and individuality can be lost. However, that’s not necessarily true. Many times schools have seen students stick out in other ways, wearing items like wristwear or ties to go with their uniform. 

All in all, a uniform policy would be a great addition to BASH. It would increase students overall school experience both in their ability to learn and interact socially with others. Even if you don’t agree with this opinion, I hope you’ll at least be able to look at uniforms from a new perspective in the future.