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School Board considers uniforms

By: Julie Morgan
Staff Writer

After a school board meeting on October 10, GM prinipals, Mr. Donald Ickes and Mr. Richard Scaletta received authorization from the school board to look into the advantages of school uniforms.

The primary reason for a school uniform policy would be to provide an atmosphere more appropriate for school. Ickes feels that because of today's fashion industry, it's too difficult to tell students what is and isn't appropriate. Ickes and other staff members at GM feel that students dress for school like they are dressing to go to dance clubs, or social gatherings on the weekends. In agreement with Ickes, guidance counselor Mrs. Debbie McElroy stated, "I got my own belly, I dont need to see yours!"

The administration has not yet decided if the uniform policy will go into effect but they are considering all of the different options. If the dress code policy is desired and approved, then the earliest possible time for the uniforms will be next school year.

The school uniforms, if decided, would be considered a dress code policy. With a dress code policy, students would be required to wear certain pants like khakis and specified colors of polo shirts. Shorts would be permitted certain times of the year, and like skirts, would have to be a certain length.

Superintendant Dr. Therese Walter feels that school uniforms are something that would effect everyone. Walter said that when the decision is made, it will not be made lightly. Walter also added that the decision will be made by the community as a whole, including students, parents, and faculty.

Another benefit of school uniforms was noted by Walter. She feels that school uniforms will exhibit a great amount of pride.Walter feels that when students put on a uniform, for a sport or band, they feel proud because they are representing their school and their team as a whole. Walter attended a uniform oriented school throughout her childhood years. She said, "We concentrated on what school was about, and our friendships were based on the insides."

According to website(truegrits.com), uniforms solve many fights between parents and children. Parents who want their children to dress more appropriate will not have to deal with the daily struggle.

Truegrits, a business that sells school uniforms, also states that the costs of uniforms are considerably less because fewer articles of clothing are needed, and the cost of uniforms are cheaper than today's trendy clothing.

Former GM student, sophomore at Cathedral Prep, Kirk Vroman thinks that school uniforms are more time efficient. He said, "I like them! It makes it easier in the morning. It takes the emphasis off of style and brings the kids together more."

A school uniform policy is currently being looked into in the GM school district.Though nothing is official, the administration is encouraging students and parents to provide their input. Comments can be emailed to scaletta.r@gm.iu5.org.