Nashoba Regional High School allows students to wear any clothes that they like. However, there are plenty of schools around Massachusetts and the nation that require students to wear uniforms. This topic has been a continuous issue for decades, with very passionate opinions from both sides. One side argues that uniforms create a sense of community and belonging, while the other says that uniforms infringe on kids’ individuality and creativity. There are studies supporting both sides of the spectrum and we are able to look at the pros and cons of both. 

The first reason why schools like the idea of uniforms is because it fosters a sense of belonging and creativity. When everyone dresses the same, it gets rid of the stigma around certain clothes and students judging other students based on how expensive their clothes are or what brand they are from. This reduces the pressure of feeling the need to buy the same clothes as others. It creates an equal atmosphere among the students and the grades. According to the International Journal of Educational Management, researchers found that the highest-performing students are the most disciplined: “for countries where students wear school uniforms, our study found that students listen significantly better, there are lower noise levels, and lower teaching waiting times with classes starting on time”. Not only do uniforms create inclusivity but they also create school pride; they become a symbol of the school representing the values that the school preaches and the collective identity of the community. A sense of pride can have a positive impact on improved behavior and learning and create a safer environment for students. For safety policies such as determining whether certain people are part of the school or not it is easier for staff to help identify students. Also, uniforms allow for easier detection of students in large crowds when on field trips and other off-campus events.

The implementation of uniforms also helps with students’ routines and a quicker way of getting ready in the morning since you don’t have to worry about what to wear. The largest argument against school uniforms is that it limits students’ freedom of expression. The U.S. Supreme Court stated in Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District (1969) that “it can hardly be argued that either students or teachers shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate.” So, it is argued that school uniforms restrict this right and students should be allowed to show individuality and wear what they please. Non-binary students can also feel ostracized by school uniforms. There are typically only two options for students – skirts for girls and pants for boys – which can make students who do not identify as a boy or girl feel uncomfortable and anxious about going to school. Another argument against uniforms is the slower transition to adulthood. Adults make their own decisions about almost every aspect of their lives, including what they wear. Making this daily choice sets students up for decision-making abilities that they will need in the future.

Overall, there are many reasons for and against school uniforms that schools should consider. Whether or not you like uniforms, it is important to see both sides of the argument and decide which one creates the healthiest learning environment for growing students.