Pros And Cons Of School Dress Codes

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At least 58% of schools in the United States enforce a strict dress code. School dress codes and uniforms in private and public schools can be both helpful and harmful to students in relation to their learning and social skills. Implementing school dress codes has shown to increase concentration in the classroom due to the lack of extreme clothing or hair styles, less peer pressure since everyone has to wear the same clothes, and an increase in school safety. According to Don Woodard, a high school principal in Johnston county, The students’ “demeanor is better and there are fewer distractions because of teasing, or students being uncomfortable because of the apparel that others are wearing.” But they also say it's unconstitutional because schools are taking away students freedom of expression.
Putting dress codes into effect has had positive effects in school systems. Studies have shown that schools with uniform policies in place, the students stay more disciplined and focused in their studies and feel less peer pressure. Administrators claim there are fewer disruptions in the classroom because of teasing due to the amount of money clothes cost or what brand they buy. Students focus more
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Poverty is a huge problem for schools with uniforms. Most dress codes usually require or can require specific shirts, sweaters, jackets, skirts, and socks. In some instances, they must wear ties which students may feel distressed wearing due to tightness, itchiness or poor fit. Uniforms are not comfortable for all students and there is a potential for discomfort that can disrupt the student’s focus. A school dress code can be costly depending on how strict the dress code is to a student whose family has a lower income. Considering parents have to purchase two sets of clothes for both home and school use and that may be somewhat expensive, especially for parents who don't make a lot of

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