So far, the initiative seems to be working. Parents love not having to buy expensive clothes so their kids can compete with classmates, and even some kids don't seem to mind the simplicity of turning to an outfit that's ready to go. Public schools that are considering dress codes have several options. They can require uniforms, whereby parents must buy very specific outfits, usually with the school's name or logo on them. Dress code policies are generally voluntary and must be voted in by two-thirds of parents.
Most schools offer waivers for religious or financial reasons.
Voluntary uniform policies are fast becoming the way to go for most schools, said Broward Schools Superintendent Frank Till. The reason, he said, is more work seems to get done. There, parents voted a year ago to enforce a mandatory dress code. The simple color scheme cuts down on parents having to buy expensive brand names, and it makes early mornings less of a hassle, parents said. Adopting a dress code works especially well in middle school, where students often are struggling to fit in with peers, said Anne-Marie Becker, assistant principal of Seminole Middle School in Plantation.