AHS doesn't have uniforms; let's keep it that way

by Reagan S.

At Airport High School we are fortunate enough to not have uniforms, but other students shouldn't have to either. For example, a lot of private and charter schools require students to wear uniforms. Green Charter School, ALA, and Northside Christian Academy are schools near us that require uniforms.

Some people think uniforms are unnecessary and we shouldn’t enforce them. Others think uniforms are a good way to make each kid feel equal and prevent anything bad from happening.

My opinion is that uniforms are totally unnecessary and we shouldn't have them.

First of all, the high cost of uniforms should be reason enough not to force students to wear them and parents to buy them. Found here on Smartasset.com, uniforms might include pricier items that some parents simply cannot afford. Having to buy multiple shirts, skirts, pants, and sweatshirts can add up and be quite expensive. Uniforms might be limited, increasing prices to compete with other companies.

Secondly, school uniforms limit self-expression. According to SmartAsset, teenagers are infamous for wanting to express themselves through clothing. School can be stressful and tough, so letting students be themselves can help out. Wearing what one feels confident and comfortable in can make coming to school more bearable for students. Some students just don't feel comfortable in khaki pants or skirts, so jeans or sweatpants are their choice. Having to wear something one doesn’t like can be agonizing for a teenager and distract them from more important things, like being able to pay attention in class.

Similar to the last reason, uniforms can be uncomfortable. Skirts could be embarrassing or pants may be “unflattering” for some. In one article from Story Factory, the author notes that sweaters or jackets can be itchy, as well as pants or shirts. Having to wear certain colors or certain shoes can be pricey and not a first choice for school. Some kids might have allergies to certain materials and the uniform might feel tight or rigid to them. Most uniforms are made of polyester, viscose and acrylic yarns. For example, polyester doesn’t breathe as well as natural fibers, and they make you sweat more.This can increase their temper and can also affect their learning as well.

Others opinions could be that uniforms are required because everyone is more equal-looking, it is quicker getting ready in the mornings if one already knows what he or she must wear, and it can limit bullying because kids are not picked on for not having name-brand clothing. While these are all true, we still want kids to have some sort of freedom and allow them to be themselves. Uniforms are one small way to maintain freedom and comfort for students in school buildings that can sometimes feel more like jails than centers of learning.

Other students agree that schools should not enforce uniforms. Mckenna P., a freshman at Airport High School, says, “Schools shouldn’t have uniforms because kids should be able to express themselves through their clothing”. Adrianna O., a senior at Airport High School, says “It allows us as students to be able to express ourselves and our personalities by choosing what to wear, and if we have uniforms then we won’t be able to express ourselves freely.”

Students should not wear uniforms. Uniforms can be expensive, limit self-expression, and can be uncomfortable. I hope school boards start to realize these reasons and continues to allow students in our district a little more freedom.