School dress code refers to rules and regulations regarding clothing and appearance in a given learning environment. The rules typically apply to high and middle schools, and state clearly what students are allowed to wear (and what they are forbidden to wear). Most schools require students to wear school uniforms, while others have many policies for appropriate clothing.
The dress codes are generally intended to create a specific atmosphere in schools while at the same time providing students with freedom of expression using their wardrobe.
Importance of dress code in school
- Upholds school reputation; school dress code plays the same role as branding. Pupils who look smart and are all uniformly dressed send a positive message about their school.
- Prepare students for afterschool life; following school dress codes prepare students for adult life. There are minimal occupations where people are not required to follow some form of dress code.
- Minimize showing off; not all students are able to keep up with the latest fashion trends.
- Historical value; the distinctive school dress code provides a link to the rich history of the specific school. It is also a symbol of its illustrious community.
- Lessen the pressure on parents; dress codes make life a lot easier for parents. Besides not having to watch what their children put on, the policies reduce the financial burden of buying clothing for each day.
- Promotes concentration; the rules make student focus more on their studies and not on their wardrobes thus facilitating effective learning.
- Raise students’ personal expectations; when dressed decently and seriously, students are provoked into thinking seriously. Consequently, the policy makes students calmer and more polite.
- Establish routine; every time students wear school uniforms, it rings in their mind that it is time to get serious, settle down and learn.
- Promote appropriate dressing; policies on how to dress in schools encourages appropriate dressing both in school and in real life.
- Motivates children to start schooling; wearing school excites children into desiring to start going to school.
- Reduce peer pressure; dress codes means students do not have to worry about peer pressure regarding their outfits. Dressing the same means no one will worry about how they look.
Conclusion
School dress codes solve many problems for administrators, students, teachers, and the school. The policy ensures there is no competition on who is more fashionable, no stress on what to wear on a particular day and more concentration in class. It also lessens the financial burden on parents because they will not have to spend a lot of money buying clothes for each day of the week.
By: Joni Kim
EdgeArticles 