"Do you think school uniforms are a good or bad idea?" by Isabel G.

School uniforms have been a huge topic of debate in many schools across the country. I believe that uniforms limit students’ freedom of expression. Fashion and wearing clothes are important ways to show personality and who someone is as a person. Being forced to wear a uniform can be uncomfortable, decrease confidence, and make someone feel like they are forbidden to show character. As I have grown up my style and aesthetics have drastically changed which has helped me figure out who I am as a person. Without daily self-expression and getting to choose how I want to dress, I can confidently say I wouldn't be the person I am today. In my opinion, school uniforms are a bad idea because they limit self-expression, do not truly stop bullying, and can make students uncomfortable in their own bodies.

High school is a time when teens are discovering who they are and what makes them unique from everyone else. Clothing is one of the easiest and most creative ways to show personality, interests and culture. Some students like to dress sporty or edgy, while others prefer vintage or bold colors. If everyone is required to wear the same clothes, styles or colors it erases individuality in schools. School can be difficult for a lot of students as is. Flattening and taking away the chance to be independent and distinctive can make school even harder for children. Using self expression in social situations like school can build confidence and make students feel proud of the way they present themselves. School uniforms make school feel more like a place of control than what it should be, creativity.

Another argument is that school uniforms do not truly put a stop to bullying. Many supporters of uniforms argue that they prevent teasing about clothes, but bullying can come in many more forms than just fashion. Students can still be bullied for their physical appearance, social status and interests. Even with uniforms applied, bullies can still compare accessories, shoes, or even hairstyles. This shows that uniforms do not solve the deeper problem. Instead of focusing on controlling clothing, schools should focus on teaching students how to be respectful, kind, empathic and accept who they are and who other people are so they can use those skills in the real world. Bullying is a behavioral issue, not a dress code issue. Therefore, uniforms are not the solution people think they are.

Even though some people believe uniforms create equality and order, the truth is that they take away important opportunities for self expression. High school is a time for growth, creativity and finding out who you truly are as a human, not just as an adolescent. Limiting what a student can wear may seem small, but it can take a toll on how they feel about themselves. Uniforms do not truly stop bullying, and they can make students uncomfortable in their own bodies. Schools should be focusing on creating a positive environment through respect and understanding rather than strict dress codes that discredit students’ personalities and inner selves. Giving students the freedom of expression can lead to a more inclusive, confident and supportive school community. Due to these reasons, I believe that school uniforms are a bad idea and should not be required.