To Be or Not To Be
By: Brian Elrod
To be.or not to be."uniformed" that is. This seems to be a growing question in many private and Christian schools throughout the country. In my experience, I have concluded a specific question that can determine whether your school is a candidate for uniforms: Does your administration or faculty spend any of their valuable time addressing clothing or dress-code issues? If the answer is yes, then your school should certainly consider school uniforms as an option.
Typically, school uniforms are divided into two categories: uniforms and dress code. Let's take a moment to explain the difference between the two.
School uniforms are dress apparel that is truly consistent and the same. There is no room for interpretation of what is acceptable and what is not acceptable. These chosen school uniform items are traditionally purchased at a minimum of one or two designated retail vendors. The school administration has determined what they prefer for all their students to wear, and the uniform provider adheres to those decisions by stocking those specific chosen items.
School uniforms are generally always logo'd with either embroidery or heat application, and now many schools include the pants as well. This method makes it easy for uniforms to be monitored by faculty and students know there is no getting around the rules.
On the other hand, dress codes are simply guidelines for students to follow when purchasing school apparel. A school may only require a collared shirt or polo with khaki pants. This type of generalities and vagueness can sometimes work, but the variation of types of clothing usually results in many of the same problems faced prior to the dress code being implemented.
The true purpose of instituting a uniform program is to take daily assessments of what clothing is appropriate or not away from the school day. A good uniform policy will make clothing a moot issue at a school so the focus can be on learning.
Here are some of the benefits of uniforms that I have personally witnessed.
First and foremost, it is easy. Both parents and the children agree mornings are a breeze with uniforms--no debate, arguing or negotiating what is going to be worn. Very often, teenagers praise uniforms after the first year of wearing them, for they can get an extra 30 minutes to an hour of sleep, not having to decide what to wear.
Second, it takes pressure off the students. Clothing is a huge struggle for students. Wearing the cool outfit or looking a certain way is stressful and takes a lot of time. Students can often feel inferior if their economic background does not allow for the latest apparel. School uniforms tend to diminish this issue.
School spirit and pride can easily occur as the result of school uniforms. Students are automatically associated with the school. They begin to take pride in what that school uniform represents. They feel part of the school community.
Economics can certainly play a role in school uniforms. There is no doubt it is less expensive than buying clothes from the mall. You can outfit a child for an entire year for approximately $200.
Safety is a growing concern in all of our schools. Knowing exactly who your students are in the school or away from school by visual assessment can benefit in numerous ways.
Many schools have distinct colors and styles, making a school uniform a walking billboard for the school. Students proudly wearing their school uniforms can lead to better branding of the school.
Uniforms create a work atmosphere. When the uniforms go on, it is time to study and achieve academically.
Schools are in constant need of funding. Fundraising becomes a part of most any school. School uniform companies often give back a percentage of sales to the school. These additional funds can benefit a school in a variety of ways.
Here are some of the negatives I have heard about uniforms.
Although I have never personally experienced this, some adversaries say uniforms take away from the child's individuality. Children's personalities shine through their clothing. If we teach our children that clothing make the person, and then we are sending the wrong message.
Some argue the expense. However, I know the argument is only debatable the first year a school starts a uniform program. Starting a school uniform wardrobe from nothing may cost more the first year, but in the following years when parents are just adding supplemental pieces here and there, that expense is quite minimal compared to everyday clothing. Plus, school uniforms hold up so well, various items are candidates for hand-me-downs. Many schools even have a used uniform swap. Some uniform companies have even implemented buying plans to help with start-up costs for underprivileged students.
Some argue uniforms are uncomfortable. This may have been true in the past and with some current uniform suppliers that only offer traditional uniforms. Many companies have gone to great research and expense to find and offer many up-to-date styles, fits and fabrics that can make even the pickiest teenager happy.
Ultimately, school administrators must decide whether the positives out weigh the negatives for their school. If you decide to make uniforms a part of your school program, consider the following steps.
• Poll the parents and faculty, but remember to get complete participation. Very often only the "nays" will vote. 51% and above should be the majority.
• Form a small uniform committee of parents, faculty, students and administrators. Keep the committee to fewer than eight people.
• Meet with potential vendors. The vendor is a vital part of a successful uniform program. Consider the vendor's strengths. Considerations when picking a uniform vender include store availability, local ownership, national company, on-site embroidery and screen printing services, alterations, adequate stock availability, knowledgeable personnel, Web site capabilities, whether a contract has to be signed, and whether there is a "rebate" program.
• Pick a professional uniform vendor. Many schools make a critical mistake by giving this daunting task to a parent.
• Work with the appointed vendor to design and create a uniform policy that meets your school's needs.
• Communicate openly and often about the uniform policy and start date with faculty and parents.
• Enforce the uniform policy.
• Be patient the first year.
There is no question the first year is the most difficult. It is change, and change can sometimes be difficult. It's only after the first year that school uniforms become a part of the school rules and ultimately the school tradition. In addition, it is also more difficult on the vendor the first year; they have no buying patterns or history for the school. This is a good reason for selecting a national vendor with multiple resources and stores to aid in many start-up issues.
I once had a principal of a large Christian school tell me, "If my parents could guarantee me that the children would leave the house properly dressed for school, there would be no reason for school uniforms." However, those same parents could not make that guarantee. I also had a large Christian school that was totally opposed to school uniforms convert, and when asked why they changed, they said, "We are tired of policing clothing. It takes up too much of the day."
Some schools are worried about losing student count if they adopt uniforms. However, I have seen school enrollment increase at almost every school in which we have worked. Only time will tell, but I am completely confident that school uniforms are the natural evolution for Christian, private and public schools across the country.
Regardless of whether you decided "To be or not to be," I believe considering uniforms for your school is time well spent.
Brian Elrod is the president of Educational Outfitters, www.educationaloutfitters.com. They currently have 22 stores across the country, and another 50 planned over the next five years.
Product Roundup
True Grits
True Grits School Uniforms has been providing high-quality school uniforms at reasonable prices to parents and administrators since 1981. The company serves schools throughout the country through retail stores, a toll-free phone order system and a secure Web site. The company offers several "bonus features" for schools, including fundraising donations, percentage rebates and scholarship support.
www.truegrits.com
Schoolbelles
Schoolbelles has been providing top-quality school uniforms since 1956. The family-owned corporation has 12 retail stores throughout the Midwest and offers a personalized uniform buying guide and customized listing on its Web site as a tool for schools and parents. Styles range from simple to sophisticated. The company offers certificate fundraising for schools and custom logo merchandise for uniform or spirit wear. Schoolbelles services schools with enrollments up to 2,000 students.
www.schoolbelles.com
KAYNEE
In 1888, Jacob Kastriner and Charles Eiseman combined talents to manufacture K&E boys' waist and blouses, incorporating the organization in 1914 as the KAYNEE Company. Today KAYNEE is a major supplier of school uniform products for boys, girls, women and men in juvenile, youth and adult sizes. All are distributed through approved retailers. KAYNEE has a couple of "firsts" to its credit, including being the first to patent the loop drawstring for boys' blouses and the first boyswear company to advertise its apparel. KAYNEE also introduced the patented "Nexpander" collar, which helps the shirt collar grow with the wearer, making dress shirts more comfortable and providing for longer wear. All KAYNEE knit and woven products are tested for sturdy quality and are guaranteed one year to give normal wear.
www.kaynee.com
Educational Outfitters
Educational Outfitters is a premier school apparel provider, founded by a stay-at-home mom. The vision was for a company providing better service, better quality, better value and better stores. Featuring updated uniform styles and spirit items, the fast-growing Educational Outfitters now has stores nationwide, with more scheduled to open. The company stocks all sizes year-round and offers online ordering, personal shoppers, alteration services and on-site embroidery and screen printing. A percentage of every dollar spent is donated the child's school, and through the EDGE program, parents receive additional benefits with a frequent buyer card. www.educationaloutfitters.com
Parker
Established as a family-owned business in 1931, Parker is an experienced school uniform supplier, taking pride in its garment quality and style. The company developed a uniform that "grows" with a child, with adjustable waistbands and waist lengths, along with other growth features. The garments are designed for easy care and comfort, as well as being consistent with current uniform trends. Presently serving more than 750 schools, Parker has an interactive Web site, customized by school, gender and grade. Purchases also can be made year-round in retail stores.
www.parkersu.com
Rose Uniforms
Rose Uniforms presents a shirt that students and administrators both like! It is a comfortable polo shirt with a banded bottom designed to be worn out, avoiding the inevitable "tuck in your shirt" battles. The shirt can be worn by boys with khakis and girls with flat front skirts. You can also add an embroidered logo to promote school awareness and help with dress code enforcement. Style, modesty and value equal a successful Rose uniforms program. Established in 1958, Rose Uniforms has been providing high-quality school uniforms and accessories ever since. They have experience serving children's uniform needs to hundreds of schools throughout the United States . They feature American-made- name brand products whenever possible. All products are machine washable and permanent press, except ties and blazers.
www.roseuniforms.com
