It eliminates any arguments about what to wear to school. School uniforms appear to be successful, but critics claim there is no evidence that school uniforms effectively increase student achievement or lessen violence and theft. Small classes, new computers, and modern, safe school buildings would be most effective in producing dramatic, long-lasting improvements while the issue of uniforms is only a diversion, he says. But the uniform policies implemented nationwide are targeted at elementary and middle schools, when most problems are in high school. Elementary school children are less concerned with the freedom to choose their own dress.
Some people think the idea of a classroom of identical children limits a child's individuality.
Approximately 80 percent of the children in Connecticut attend public schools, so the growing trend of uniforms in public education could end up affecting most children in the state. Peter Tacy, Executive Director of the Connecticut Association of Independent Schools, warns that problems can arise with uniform policies regarding fairness and tolerance for minorities. Minorities may see uniforms as a raid on their identity, he says. A voluntary policy, not mandatory policy, would create fewer problems and not infringe on student's civil rights, he says. School uniforms may not be the solution to all the problems plaguing public education, but many teachers and parents are pleased with the positive changes in the classroom.