英語版

Iwata Uniform Committee
Newsletter
July 2024

We held our first meeting to select the school uniforms. The
secretariat presented the report prepared by the committee inFebruary 2024.

Currently in Iwata:☆1 school uses blazer-style uniforms.
☆9 schools adopt uniforms with high collars or sailor-style.
Variation in uniform materials reflects different price ranges.

○Pros and ▲Cons of Uniforms:○ Reduces economic differences among students.
○ Increases school pride and sense of belonging.
○ Eliminates daily worries about clothing choice.

Movements by Local and Regional Authorities:• The final decision on uniforms will be made by
the school principal, with input from parents andthe school community.
• Respect for LGBTQ + diversity.
• The cities of Kakegawa and Fukuroi will adopt
new uniforms starting in 2024, following local
evaluations.
• In Hamamatsu, a commission was establishedto study uniforms for elementary and junior highschools in 2023.

○ Suitable for formal occasions.
▲ Can be hot in summer and cold in winter.
▲ Limits movement and may not be very comfortable.
▲ Restricts variety in clothing styles.

Survey Results in Iwata: (Participants included
elementary and junior high school students,parents, and teachers)Desired Features for Future Iwata Uniforms:•

Practicality (easy home washing,

There was a strong desire for practical uniforms
suitable for various weather conditions.
Students valued design, while parents andteachers showed less concern in this aspect.

waterproofing, quick drying, simple length•adjustment), affordability, and versatility.
Transitioning to blazer-style uniforms.

Future plans of the Uniform Review Committee inIwata (during the school year 2024-2025):
1. Drafting proposals for manufacturers.
2. Selecting the main manufacturer through a proposalprocess.
3. Refining samples.
4. Final design decision based on opinion surveys.

Each school will consider thefollowing:When to introduce the new uniforms.
How to handle the transition period.
Whether to require ties or ribbons.
Selection between Y-shirts and poloshirts.

In the Uniform Review Committee report, the director representing Junior HighSchools addressed the committee's purpose, underscored the importance ofuniforms, emphasized the need for uniformity within the city, and outlined plans forthe transition period. Below is a summary in a question and answer format:
Q: Why was the decision made to change the uniforms?
A: The decision was driven by climate changes and recent rapid social transformations, questioning thepracticality and comfort of current uniforms. There's a need for uniforms adjustable to varying temperatures,
as sailor uniforms lack this flexibility. Additionally, skirts are impractical in winter and raise safety concerns forbiking students. There's significant demand for pants and skirts suitable for various occasions such asceremonies and entrance exams.
Q: Why is standardizing uniforms in Iwata necessary?
A: Standardized uniforms in Iwata will bring cost savings to parents and streamline recycling efforts. Moreover,students won't need new uniforms if transferred within the city.
Q: Will Junior High School uniforms in Iwata be identical?
A: To reduce financial burdens, we're considering adopting the same design (blazer, pants, skirt) across JuniorHigh Schools in Iwata. The decision on ties and ribbons will vary by school. Each school will also choose
between Y-neck shirts or polo shirts.
Q: When will the uniform change take place? What will be the duration of the transition
period?
A: There are plans to introduce new uniforms starting from the fiscal year 2026. The decision to adopt themwill depend on each school. Ideally, the transition should be implemented over a three-year period, with carefulconsideration by each school for the future.

Opinions Discussed During the Group Session:

We want to hear from the studentsof Nagafuji Gakufu who arealready using the new uniforms.

Junior high school students areconcerned about both the styleand functionality of the uniforms.

Should the price reflect the comfort
and quality of the material? Is thechoice of model crucial?

It is important that the uniforms canadjust to each student's growth.

We should consider theresearch results when
making decisions.

With advancements in materials, we canhave uniforms suitable for physical activities
with a modern look.

It is better to wear clothes
that are easy to wash.
Some students prefer clothes thatare already available in the market.

We aim to increase
opportunities for wearing
the school uniform.