The Debate

There are many people who believe that children who attend public schools should be required to wear a school uniform. They argue that it is unfair to have opposing regulations for children who attend private or public schools. It has also been argued that financial savings for parent of uniform wearing children is a good reason to require uniforms.

While those positions have merit, I strongly disagree and will present my reasons for opposing such a requirement. First, a school uniform is symbolic of a particular private school. It is selected to give a spirit ot uniformity and unity amongst all its students. Each private school carefully selects a design and style as a distinguishing and identifiable symbol. the massive public school system falls under one huge administration and therefore, particular school identification is unnecessary.

Proponents of uniforms for public school children also argue that financially, it makes greater sense for parents to buy a school uniform rather than an entire wardrobe. It is obvious that the proponents who make this argument have not priced uniforms lately. The cost of school uniforms is high and limits parental choice. Parents cannot shop around because uniforms will be expensive no matter where they purchase it. Buying a wardrobe for the student can be less expensive if you shop at bargains and sales.

There is nothing unfair about giving people choices. Parents always have the option of registering their children in private school where uniforms are required. They should also have the right to choose a public school where they will not be burdened with a uniform requirement. What would really be unfair is to limit or eliminate parental choice.

Many families facing financial hardships send their children to public school to avoid the burden of tuition cost. Why should they be required to have the expense of buying expensive uniforms which cannot be used for any other occasion? Give families the choices they deserve and want.

Our society is one that prides itself on granting freedom to its members. Let us not throw away our liberty and freedom to choose.