PERRYVILLE CONSIDERS SCHOOL UNIFORMS

The Perryville School District is studying the idea of requiring school uniforms for students. Although many parochial schools require uniforms, Perryville would be the first public school in the region to do so.

But such a notion may be gaining favor with parents, teachers and even students. School uniforms have become an issue of school safety.

Student shooters in Littleton, Colo., wore black trench coats to school. Uniforms would be an easy way to avoid this issue, along with other questionable clothing trends.

Some districts are pushing uniforms as a quick way to identify students from outsiders. The uniforms also leave little room to hide contraband.

A number of parochial schools have adopted a modified uniform such as khaki pants and polo-type shirts of limited colors. Some schools even take uniforms down to the shoes -- such as penny loafers.

Student-to-student theft might also be lessened. There would be no expensive tennis shoes or other designer clothing to steal.

And some parochial schools embrace uniforms as a kind of status equalizer. Students dress alike, whether their parents can afford expensive name-brand clothes or not.

The issue of school uniforms in Perryville was raised by several parents -- a good place to start. The district is wisely surveying all parents, teachers and students about the idea. Widespread support would make the idea much easier to implement -- especially because there would be a cost to parents.

There's no doubt other area schools and parents will keep a close watch on possible dress-code changes in Perryville.