School uniform policies are determined at the district level, yet 28 states have statutes that address implementation and restrictions for uniform and dress codes. Petition your local school board and have them send out a survey to be completed by teachers and parents to determine if a majority is in favor of a school uniform. Before the poll is sent, establish a percentage of total parent votes needed. In addition, set a standard percentage of parents who must be in favor in order to pursue the policy.
If you receive favorable results, request that the school board form a research and planning committee. Because students are the ones wearing the uniforms, invite students to participate in committee searches and contribute their ideas as well. Allow students to have some say in choosing a uniform, whether they decide on the placement of a logo or the color of shirts and/or bottoms to be worn. If you allow students to decide on a logo, the Manual on School Uniforms advises against ones "bearing a substantive message," like a political one.
There are two factors that should be considered when choosing the style of uniform: the climate and durability. Tailor your uniforms' style and materials to best match your environment. For example, a school in Florida should not require students to wear long sleeves and wool pants, nor should a school in Oregon mandate students to wear attire that would make them cold. Choose a material like cotton or a cotton blend that will hold up over time and not look worn and faded, or tear easily. Yet the material still must be comfortable for the students. Materials such as polyester and wool might be durable, but can be uncomfortable and pose a potential distraction.
Clothing for uniforms can be purchased from online companies in bulk. A quick web search of "school uniforms" should bring up more than enough distributors. Inform your local department stores that your district might be putting a uniform policy in effect. Provide for them a list of all the items and colors needed so they can in turn stock the stores with those necessities. Some districts contract a local seamstress for custom tailored uniforms. If you are interested in pursuing the custom fit uniform, start your search within the school community. It is likely that either you have a parent with the necessary skills, or at the least someone who can provide a recommendation.
Regardless of the purchasing option that best suits your district, shop around and get several price quotes to determine the average cost of uniforms. Choose the option that is affordable to everyone, yet make sure you purchase quality items. A means of financial assistance must be established for those families who cannot afford the uniforms. The Manual on School Uniforms suggests the following to make uniforms more affordable: "a) the school district provides uniforms to students who cannot afford to purchase them; (b) community and business leaders provide uniforms or contribute financial support for uniforms; (c) school parents work together to make uniforms available for economically disadvantaged students; and (d) used uniforms from graduates are made available to incoming students." Some schools have fundraisers for those who cannot afford uniforms. Finally, determine how uniforms will be made available to parents and students. Either have the uniforms purchased and distributed through the school or give parents and students the liberty of shopping around town
Although school uniforms seem to promote a more cohesive community overall, there are some potential issues that are consistently raised in opposition to uniformity. Both parents and students have expressed concern that uniforms stifle creative expression. In other words, uniforms come at the cost of individuality.The Manual mandates that "a uniform policy may not prohibit students from wearing or displaying expressive items." Even though the argument has been made that uniforms will save money, parents still cite cost as a reason for concern. Purchasing an initial wardrobe to abide by the new policy could potentially be pricey. Still others might be apprehensive of implementing a standard uniform as it might interfere with clothing required of specific religions.