School uniforms can be a nuisance for many students who need to wear them, but have they ever wondered what good they (uniforms) can do for them?
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According to Britannica, the origin of school uniforms dates back to 13th-century England. The “cappa clausa” was the first recorded uniform that looked like someone from the clergy would wear. What became today’s standard were the military-styled uniforms worn by the Native American children who attended government-led boarding schools.
Due to their modesty and efficiency, plenty of private and parochial institutions around the world require their students to wear them. Albeit its percentage, the Journalist’s Resource stated that public schools began mandating uniforms too, starting from 12% in 1999 to 22% in 2016. Despite its uprisings, people have sparked debates about whether or not the attire will help students because of its disadvantages, like the additional cost and lack of freedom. However, many teachers show their support by believing that school uniforms will help prevent bullying, improve discipline, and stop danger amongst their students.
The Effects of School Uniforms
Prevents Bullying
First of all, school uniforms can prevent bullying and isolation. Studies show that nine out of ten teachers agree that uniforms have prevented bullying. This is because self-expression increases the chance for students to be divided into cliques; if one doesn’t dress like the others, then they would get objected to and left out.
By wearing the same outfit every day, it’s less likely for them to comment on others based on their physical appearances. Because there is nothing different about their looks, the only way for students to judge is by getting to know each other.
Improves Discipline
Next, school uniforms can improve discipline and academic performance. Two researchers from the University of Nevada conducted a survey with 1350 students in the Washoe County School District in terms of their first year of wearing uniforms. As a result, they mainly agreed that wearing uniforms has made them less worried about their self-image and the chances of gang activity. With fewer concerns about the peace and unity within the three schools, the students get to focus on their studies better.
Stops Danger
Lastly, school uniforms can stop danger and promote safety. Uniforms are meant to distinguish people who originate from the same group. In a survey, 9 out of 10 principals from Virginia stated that they were able to spot intruders, as reported by Mateusz Brodowicz. Uniforms don’t only make students look tidy, but they also show that they are a visual aid for security personnel.
For a very long time, uniforms have been provided by private and religious schools because they encourage their students to be modest and efficient. As it made its way to public schools, educators argued if uniforms would enhance the academic experience of the students. With all the gathered evidence, the garment reveals to have an effect because it can unite everyone amidst their differences, minimize distractions caused by improper behavior, and develop a safer environment against unexpected encounters. Whether most liked them or not, they must remember what effect it had on making their academic experience better.
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About the author:
Nadine De Leon is a young writer in training who wants to inform others about important matters, like a better lifestyle and current events so that people will learn and become more aware of what is happening. She isn’t just an informative person; she is also creative and innovative, always conceptualizing something new and improving something old.