Advantages of Wearing School Uniforms

I am totally in favor of students being required to wear similar clothing or uniforms while on their school campuses.

I am a sworn police officer with the city of Downey. I am currently assigned to the Administration Division and I am teaching the D.A.R.E. program in our public and private schools (fifth and seventh grades). This is my fifth year of working in Downey classrooms.

I have observed varied behavior among students, and I believe much of their attitude and demeanor is manifested by the clothing they wear to school.

The student (male or female) who wears gang attire--baggy clothes, hats turned backward, untied shoes, colored bandannas--intimidates other students solely by his or her appearance.

I also teach in private schools that require uniforms. The attitude of the students toward each other is remarkably different than in schools without dress requirements. The participation by students in the classroom is better, and they are not intimidated by others because of their appearance. This creates a more efficient learning environment and it makes it much easier and less stressful for the teacher, as well as the student.

If all students were required to wear, for instance, white shirts and blouses, and black pants and skirts, the parents would have a much easier task of buying school clothes and not giving in to the fashion pressure put on them by their children. These clothing items can also be purchased anywhere, from K mart to Robinsons and if need be, can be found in most thrift stores. Parents would enjoy quite a financial savings while shopping for school clothes.

BILL GOUGH D.A.R.E. Officer Downey Police Department