Does uniform play a part in students' performances in school?

Does uniform play a part in students' performances in school?

By: Dasani Reed

April, 25 2022

People have many different opinions and theories when it comes to wearing uniforms. Magnet Schools in Philadelphia perform at the same education rate while some have uniforms and others don't. It is said that when schools implement a uniform policy, it improves grades, while it reduces tardiness, skipped classes and suspensions. One study showed that 70% of principals believed that mandated school uniforms reduced disciplinary problems at their schools.

It is shown that Carver Engineering and Science is placed in the top 5% of all schools in Pennsylvania for their overall test scores , while Central and Masterman is placed 1%. They both turn out to have higher performance levels than all magnet schools, and don't have a uniform policy. An assistant principal, Ms. Gillis, speaks about her school, Central High School, not having a uniform policy.

“ Majority of our students follow the dress code. We have a few students here and there trying to go their own way and not abide by what the dress code is. ” She says, “ It depends, everybody is affected differently by the dress code even though it's not uniform … it can inadvertently affect the education process it doesn't mean that it would affect everyone but when you make decisions as a leader you have to consider the whole group,”

Other than Central and Masterman, other magnet schools that don't require uniforms are below Carver, in academic ways. Most magnet schools are top 20% for overall test scores, while Carver is top 5%, with a uniform policy. A student from Sla CC, Karston Singleton, thinks uniforms have nothing to do with academic performances.

“Uniforms are more so a sign of professionalism rather than quality. Uniforms often let you know where the student came from, and that can give you a sense of pride. ” he says. “ Other than that, uniforms won’t affect academic performance. ”

Even though these magnet schools doesn't have a set uniform policy that they follow, they all have a similar dress code. Ms. Gillis, sums up the dress code that Central High School has.

“ Yes we do have a dress code. Our dress code policy was created by one of our assistant principals, student, and teacher, who all came together to create a dress code. ” Ms. Gillis states.

Uniform can seem as if it's not that important and just clothes but most students see it deeper. A student from Central high school, Dejanae Smith, talks about her input on this.

“ While dissenters may talk about freedom of expression, I believe that this can take place outside of school, as will be the case as we move into the workplace setting. ” Says Dejanae.