|
Frequently Asked Questions |
|
| What are the differences between voluntary and mandatory school uniform policies? | |
| Voluntary school uniform policies often originate at individual schools and/or with the PTA. These policies let parents choose whether and in what circumstances their children will wear school uniforms. There is no reprimand for students who do not wear uniforms. Voluntary policies often involve fewer legal issues, including the requirement to buy uniforms for students who cannot afford them. | |
| Mandatory school uniform policies are adopted by the school district and usually require all students at participating schools to wear specific clothes and colors at all times. In most public schools, these policies have provisions for students (with parental consent) to opt out of the uniform requirements due to religious or health reasons. Mandatory polices without an “optout" could be vulnerable legal challenges. To view the government’s Manual on School Uniforms, go to http://www.ed.gov/updates/uniforms.html. | |
| How do we start the discussion about school uniforms? | |
| When a school, school district or PTA starts discussing school uniforms, the group often forms a special committee (consisting of students, educators, parents and administrators) to gather information on school uniform policies. | |
| Some helpful practices during this stage include: | |
| Polling and questioning the school community for input | |
| Observing other schools with uniform programs | |
| Interviewing parents and educators who have been through the process | |
| Understanding legalities of financial assistance and exemptions | |
| Discussing the benefits of uniform programs | |
| Classroom Uniforms can help schools by providing: | |
| Samples for fashion show | |
| Examples of Policies and Procedures | |
| Catalogs detailing the different options available | |
| Research about the benefits of uniforms | |
| How much does a school uniform wardrobe cost? | |
| One of the greatest benefits of school uniforms is the money parents will save when shopping for school clothing. Here are some typical wardrobes, and what you’ll pay if you buy Classroom School Uniforms at our suggested retailprices: | |
| Girls Outfits | |
| 1. Jumper, Short-Sleeved Blouse, Sweater: $44.00 | |
| 2. Flare Pants, Polo, Sweater: $49.00 | |
| 3. Solid Skirt, Long-Sleeved Blouse: $29.00 | |
| 4. Skort and Short-Sleeved Polo: $26.00 | |
Total $148.00 |
|
| Boys’ Outfits | |
| 1. Double-Knee Pants, Short-Sleeved Oxford, Vest Sweater: $44.00 | |
| 2. Pleated Short and Short Sleeved Polo: $26.00 | |
| 3. Double Knee Pants, Long-Sleeved Oxford Shirt: $33.00 | |
| 4. 6-pocket pant, Short Sleeved Polo: $33.00 | |
Total: $136.00 |
|
| Do I have to buy all new clothes? | |
| Maybe not! Look in your child’s closet before buying the uniforms. Your child may already have clothes acceptable for the uniform program. Buy only what you need. | |
| What do I do with uniforms my child has outgrown? | |
| Many schools we have worked with have set up a “uniform closet” where parents donate uniforms that their children have outgrown. This often helps strengthen a school’s uniform program by ensuring the participation of all students and teaching the value of giving to others in need. | |