Imagine not having to worry about what outfit to put on each day. Imagine always having a pre-picked outfit that makes getting ready easier and simpler. After late nights studying and finishing up homework, waking up to a uniform creates a stress-free atmosphere and less to think about.
Having the worry of what outfit to wear leads people to waste time in the morning. The simple act of putting on a uniform in the morning can be more efficient and reduce unnecessary stress.
“According to a national survey, over 90 percent of U.S. school leaders believe school uniform or formal dress code policies ‘eliminate wardrobe battles with kids,’ make it ‘easier to get kids ready in the morning,’ and create ‘time saving in the morning’ ” (Britannica).
“It usually takes me 15-20 minutes to pick an outfit in the morning and requiring uniforms would make my mornings a lot easier. There would be less to stress about and a level playing field with no competition of what to wear,” Hayden McGehee said.
Uniforms would promote equality and lean Jesuit students away from the societal pressure to fit in with the different fashion trends. Instead, uniforms would create a level playing field where students are less judged by what they wear and more judged by their character. Uniforms serve as a way to foster inclusivity and promote a positive community with similarities.
“Everyone has a common trait no matter their personality or how they look or what classes they take. No matter all the differences they have in their life, the one thing that can unite them is what they wear,” Thomas Bui said.
Transitioning to mandatory uniforms would also cultivate a proper image and promote professionalism at Jesuit. As Jesuit is known for its academic excellence and discipline, wearing uniforms is a meaningful way to express that image. Students have become more comfortable with wearing sweatpants and out of dress code outfits which deviates the Jesuit community from its values and rules.
In an article by Britannica, The Editors of ProCon unpacks the pros of requiring mandatory uniforms: “The National Association of Secondary School Principals states, ‘When all students are wearing the same outfit, they are less concerned about how they look and how they fit in with their peers; thus, they can concentrate on their schoolwork’.”
Required uniforms will therefore reduce dress code violations and foster an environment focused solely on education and academics. Uniforms can also increase students’ feelings of belonging at their high school since wearing the same attire is inclusive and accepting.
“A study of over 1,000 Texas middle school students found that students in uniform ‘reported significantly more positive perceptions of belonging in their school community than reported by students in the standard dress group’” (Britannica).
Uniforms would positively impact the Jesuit community and cultivate a more comfortable and professional working environment.
