New Trend- School Uniforms in Public Schools

School uniforms once thought for only private and parochial schools are now being instituted in many public schools across the country. From elementary to high School when school begins this Fall many students will not be wearing the latest Fall fashions off the runway , but a set uniform to school each day.

One of these schools is Waynedale Elementary located in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Waynedale is part of the Fort Wayne Community School District. FWCS is the second largest school district in the state of Indiana. Waynedale is located in the southern part of the city and houses students from Kindergarten through Fifth grade.

When school begins students will have a choice of either wearing a Red, White, Navy or Light Blue 'polo' type shirt and blue or khaki pants or shorts.
The School uniform is basic and easy to find at any local retailer. To help parents with the transition to school uniforms the school district had uniforms ready to be purchased at this years 'open house'.

School uniforms have long been a debated subject with pros and cons on both sides. Supporters argue that uniforms help in prevent gang colors from being worn, and the cases of theft and violence do to clothing and shoes decreases. other supports feel it gives the students a sense of community. School uniforms also help administrators quickly recognize those who do not belong on campus.

While, those opposed to school uniforms feel that uniforms violate a students rights of freedom of expression. Still others worry about the cost of uniforms.

The jury is still out on the subject, but at least at Waynedale in Fort Wayne, parents seem to be pleased with the new policy. Elizabeth Goodman says "getting my son ready in the morning is so easy now- no arguing over what to wear." and many parents agreed that they were happy with the change.

As the debate over school uniforms continues students at Wayndale Elementary join the list of students dressed to a 'T' in there 'Polo" shirts and khaki pants and only this years test scores and detention attendance sheets will tell if the new policy worked!