San Gabriel Valley : IN STITCHES

Backed by the overwhelming support of parents, the Alhambra School District’s 11,000 elementary school children next year will be connected by a common thread. A khaki, navy or white thread.

In one of several efforts to help improve student behavior and safety, uniforms will be mandatory attire at all 15 of the district’s K-8 schools, Supt. Richard Keilhacker said Tuesday. All families who had children in grades kindergarten through seven voted on the school board’s recommendation before it received final approval, Keilhacker said.

The uniforms--khaki or navy bottoms and white or navy tops--will be worn daily, but Boy and Girl Scout uniforms can be worn on meeting days. Schools will assist families who cannot afford to purchase uniforms, Keilhacker said.