The Top 10 on Why, Who, and How Guide for School Uniforms
By: Brian Elrod
First, why school uniforms? Here are the top 10 reasons for your school to consider requiring students to wear uniforms.
1. Creates a Sense of Community
Uniforms build a feel of teamwork and togetherness throughout the student body.
2. Great Public Awareness and Brand Building Opportunity for a School
For example, think about how many places these uniforms are worn after school.
3. Builds School Spirit
Wearing your school logo everyday builds pride in your school.
4. The Cost Is Less than Typical Fashion Clothing.
You can outfit a student for the entire year for $150 to $200.
5. Improved Safety Feature
Uniforms easily identify students, and they also ensure that children are properly dressed for various activities, which ultimately lowers school liability.
6. Breaks Down Socio-Economic Barriers
With uniforms, all students dress the same, regardless of household income.
7. Helps Reduce Peer Pressure
There is no need to worry about impressing others, since all students dress the same.
8. Creates a More Work-Like Atmosphere
When dressed in a uniform, it is time to go learn.
9. Provides a Great Fundraiser for the School
Most uniform suppliers give a generous percentage of sales back to the school.
10. It Is Easier!
The most important reason for uniforms is that it is easier for the faculty. (No more monitoring dress-code.) Also, it is easier for the parents. (No more fighting over what is appropriate). More importantly, it is easier for the students. (I have heard that many students sleep an extra hour in the morning because they do not have to pick out their clothing).
Of course, there are other less measurable benefits that many people have debated over the years, such as improvement in grades and conduct. Until these are proven, I will leave them out of my Top Ten.
Selecting a Provider
So, if uniforms are right for your school, how do you pick the best provider? Believe me, picking a good school uniform supplier is the most important step the first year.
Who would be the best uniform supplier for your school? Here are 10 considerations.
1. A company with a presence of a local retail store
2. A company that has multiple retail locations across the country
3. A company that has local ownership present in each store
4. A company whose prices must be reasonable, offer online ordering, and have annual sales
5. A company that has the ability to do embroidery and logos locally
6. A company that gives a percentage of sales back to the school.
7. A company that does not require a long-term contract. (I recommend never signing more than a two year contract)
8. A company that stands behind their quality for a year, and offers the most up-to-date styles and fabrics
9. A company that will act as a consultant and help you develop the best program
10. A company that is truly a school uniform company, not a parent at the school that does embroidery
Implementing a Uniform Program
Next, how should you implement a uniform program? Here are 10 ways.
1. Poll the parents; send home a flyer listing Top 10 reasons “Why School Uniforms?” with a voting card.
2. Form a small uniform committee, including one or two parents, teachers, and students.
3. Meet with potential vendors that meet the above supplier requirements.
4. Pick a vendor and get them involved from the beginning.
5. Pick out uniforms. Remember to keep it simple.
6. Make the program mandatory.
7. Communicate the new program with the parents.
8. Provide parents with “where and what to purchase” from the supplier.
9. Enforce the new policies.
10. In the end, the school, parents, and students can reap the benefits of having school uniforms.
Brian Elrod is the president and co-founder of Educational Outfitters, www.EducationalOutfitters.com.
Product Spotlight
Trimfoot
School Issue uniform footwear has only been in the marketplace for several seasons, yet Trimfoot Co. has had tremendous response to the quality and value the brand has to offer its customers. All 15 styles are constructed in high-quality leathers, many comfort features, and, most importantly, non-marking outsoles. School Issue is an in-stock program with orders available to ship within two days of placement. Schools can earn a dollar per pair by participating in Rebate to Educate when students turn in the redeemable coupon on the box. Prodigy is shown with sizing available in both girls’ and women’s sizes.
www.trimfootco.com
Blazer Depot
Classic Blazers in navy or black, all handsomely tailored and fully lined, are available from The Blazer Depot. This company with a background that dates back to 1960 is now selling direct to schools. Sizes for men, women and teens are in stock and available for immediate shipment. The company also offers contrasting or matching slacks and skirts. With Classic Blazers Plus, you can add the colors hunter green, gray, red and burgundy.
www.blazerdepot.com
Home Team Sportswear
Home Team Sportswear manufactures cheerleading uniforms and football jerseys used by schools and organizations across the country. Prices are kept low in order to allow more youth to participate in programs sponsored by schools. Uniforms can be customized to meet the needs of individual groups. The cheerleading uniforms are a bit more modest and tailored than most available today, yet still give a sharp look. Home Team also offers poms, briefs, bodysuits, warm-ups, cheer shoes and more.
www.hometeamsportswear.com
Educational Outfitters
Educational Outfitters offers a fresh approach to the retail uniform industry. As an added convenience, stores provide alteration services, embroidery, screen printing, full inventory year-round and online shopping. In addition, each store offers EOAthletics--athletic wear for players, officials and cheerleaders--and an abundance of apparel options and accessories. The company also offers EOFUNdraising, a fundraising program offering logo apparel and promotional products, providing students, their families, friends and corporate America a means of additional funding.
www.EducationalOutfitters.com
Uniforms by Parker
Parker associates have combined service of more than 1,000 years in the uniform industry. Sales, manufacturing and purchasing departments can create and procure a uniform program that is unique to any particular school. With a proven track record, the company receives timely vendor deliveries and product consistency from year to year. More than 800 schools get their uniforms from Parker. The in-stock program allows schools to make purchases year-round at 25 stores. Additionally, the company offers an interactive Web site customized by school, gender and grade for shopping convenience.
www.parkersu.com
Varsity Uniforms
Cheering--the fun and excitement of bringing fans to their feet and the team to victory--is just a part of the total cheerleading experience. It’s also about forging friendships, promoting leadership, teamwork, and community, sharing spirit and instilling pride. Cheerleader & DanzTeam has been providing cheerleading uniforms to schools since 1948. Since then, CDT has offered squads and coaches high-quality, fashion-forward designs, quick and accurate delivery, and good customer service. From pep rallies to the big game, CDT suits a squad’s personal style.
www.varsity.com
