Introduction- thesis
The issue of school uniforms has been an ongoing dispute between sensible school officials and concerned parents for many years. If those against school uniforms really took enough time to review and understand the benefits of school uniforms, they might reconsider their opinions. Being a member of our town’s school board, you have the power to influence the lives of students at Hebron High School. Some points to consider about school uniforms are that they help students establish positive dispositions, lower the levels of stress in the lives of parents and children, and provide a strong sense of security at school.
Body 1-Reason and evidence
The biggest argument against school uniforms is that they do not allow students to show any form of self-expression. Should students really be expressing themselves through clothes only? According to School Uniforms Online, “School uniforms stress that individuality and self-expression are not determined by designer clothing or the latest fashion fad.” If everyone wore school uniforms, students might be judged on their character and personality—qualities that actually matter, instead of what brand of clothing they are wearing. School Uniforms Online also notes that “school uniforms help to eliminate social distinctions.” Students would not be made self-conscious by not having expensive clothes or the latest trends because everyone would be wearing the same outfit.
Body 2-Reason and evidence
School uniforms are easy on both the students and their parents. Parents have the everyday stress of work, bills, time management, and other hassles. With school uniforms, parents would be relieved of the pressure their children put upon them to buy expensive clothes. Also, the children would have less stress by not having to decide what to wear in the morning and by not having to worry about looking fashionable at school. Some argue that school uniforms would be more expensive than buying other clothes, but this is not true. “[School uniforms] are cheap and getting cheaper. They are getting less expensive than any other clothes,” states School Uniforms Online. Much more usage is received from school uniforms than from other clothing. “…Uniforms are economical…uniforms appeared to be more durable since they are made for repeated wash and wear. Often schools have used uniform shops, further reducing costs.” Parents would agree that school uniforms are a smart choice economically.
Body 3-Reason and evidence
A very important reason for school uniforms is that they help reveal who belongs at school and who does not. The Keep School Safe website says of a recent study, “Although only fifteen percent of students supported uniforms, fifty-nine percent agreed that ‘school uniforms help school officials identify trespassers on campus.’” According to the Wikipedia website, on September 27, 2006, an intruder came to Platte Canyon High School and “took six females as hostages.” Lynna Long, one of the hostages, says that the man, Duane Roger Morrison, sexually assaulted each girl. Morrison later shot one of the girls and then committed suicide by gunfire. Trying to inconspicuously fit in with the students, Wikipedia states Morrison was wearing a “backpack and…a dark hooded sweatshirt.” Would it have been easier for students and teachers to notice this intruder if they were wearing school uniforms and he was not? We will never know, but it is likely.
Body 4-Explain arguments of opposers
Conclusion-Why this topic matters
Overall, school uniforms are a good choice. The uniforms not only benefit the students but the teachers and parents as well. Uniforms increase a student’s value of character and the safety of the students and teachers. School uniforms also decrease the level of stress in the lives of parents and teachers. I ask of you to not only think about this decision but to make the right choice by voting for school uniforms at Hebron High School.
