Over the years, schools had increasingly become a distracting forum for factionalism, ethnic rivalry and socio-economic class divisions. Parents were growing more concerned about school safety and intimidation associated with gang activity and clothing. So we decided to do something about these problems. This past school year we had 11 pilot schools serving nearly 8,000 students in uniform. These schools are becoming educational workplaces.
Students arrive dressed for success, ready to learn.
They're getting along with one another better and experiencing significant gains. Our uniform mandate is part of a comprehensive strategy for improving the learning environment and safety. No single program or action, by itself, will instantly solve every problem. But student uniforms are one of several dynamic factors that influence learning. Together with other reforms being pursued by our schools, such as renewed emphasis upon basic skills, student accountability and respect for others, our new required uniforms should substantially improve the learning environment at all of our 56 elementary and 14 middle schools and enhance the safety of 58,000 students.