Uniforms for Students

* Re “Teachers Read Signals in Varied Clothing,” March 3.

There is a reason that the president, politicians, community leaders, parents and educators are supporting the concept of uniforms in our public schools. Many students today come to school wearing clothing that glorifies gang culture and values. Young ladies of 13 [wear] the tightest, most revealing clothing in hopes of looking older and attracting attention they are not equipped to handle. Younger children emulate the older ones in order to be accepted.

The greatest impact on our children’s choice of attire seems to be the media and the manufacturers of clothing who seek to satisfy the desires of juveniles, whether right or wrong, based on a close relationship with greed. Parents are constantly fighting these forces.

Schools have tried dress codes. Not only are they difficult to enforce, but they take precious time from administrators and teachers who would rather spend it dealing with students in more constructive ways.

Uniforms will not change the world. However, we know that when schools require uniforms, we see grades improve, violence decrease and an end to kids being pressured about their dress. It’s time to let our kids know that we as adults care enough about them to make the hard choices they can’t make for themselves.

ROYCE DANIELS BELLATTY

Calabasas