School Uniforms Could Only Help

* One simple solution toward easing some of the problems with peer pressure and competition in schools would be to require school uniforms.

Uniforms should be mandatory at every school, public and private. It wouldn’t require spending a single penny from the schools’ budget and would harm no one. The positive aspects of uniforms are numerous and invaluable.

Uniforms would remove the ability for the outward symbolizing of peer groups such as the “Trench Coat Mafia” at Columbine High in Littleton.

Many countries throughout the world require mandatory uniforms at all educational establishments, right down to preschool.

Why is it that the military, police departments, fire departments, hospitals, private schools and even prisons require uniforms? Because uniforms necessitate conformity and help maintain discipline, something that all too many children are lacking.

I am often appalled at what I see children wearing to school these days. Midriffs showing, nose rings, tattoos, gothic makeup, rainbow hair colors, soiled and tattered jeans and shirts, flip-flops and tank tops.

Why should children take education seriously when they are allowed to dress as if they are going to a Halloween party? School attire should be taken just as seriously as if they were going dressed for work.

I would be overwhelmed with the joy of not having to deal with three children who can’t decide what to wear to school every morning and the effort it takes to ensure they leave the house dressed appropriately. It’s not easy.

ALISA ROSS

Irvine