Student perspective on uniforms

Do you honestly want uniforms? So far it's looking like next year all the public schools of Cape Girardeau are going to be wearing uniforms. I can't say that we will be wearing school uniforms for sure, because a lot of schools (including Central Middle School) have been having meetings to discuss whether we should wear school uniforms.

The main reason for this is that some people aren't wearing exactly what's expected. Some advantages teachers find are that it promotes self-confidence, self-discipline, responsibility and increases school safety. Some disadvantages are that the uniforms may cost too much for some people and we, the students, do not want to have to wear uniforms.

If the rule passes, everyone will have to be wearing polo shirts and a choice of pants, shorts or a skirt. There will be consequences for the people who decide not to wear the uniform, such as having to leave and go home.

I don't think we should have to wear uniforms for a lot of reasons, and apparently a lot of other people agree. But then again, there are some people who do want uniforms, for reasons including:

* Seventy percent of staff have witnessed student distraction related to student dress.

* Thirty-three percent of staff has witnessed bullying related to student dress.

* Seventy-nine percent of staff believe that uniforms would increase self-esteem, dignity and professionalism of students.

My honest opinion is no, I really don't want uniforms.

BRANDI WALLS, fifth grade, Cape Girardeau