Wednesday, April 18, 2007; Posted: 5:05 p.m.
El Reno, Okla. -- El Reno Public School officials continue their push for school uniforms this week. They wrapped up a three day telephone survey on Tuesday. Surveyors asked parents if they would support school uniforms. It appears the majority is for the measure, but students have a different viewpoint.
All 2,500 students in the El Reno school district could look more uniform next year. A fact sheet explaining the proposed policy went out to parents last week. Surveyors are now calling parents asking if they would support school uniforms.
"It appears the majority of the community of parents are pretty much in favor of school uniforms," says Lonnie Hamilton, Director of Safe Schools/ Healthy Students for El Reno schools.
Hamilton says officials are pushing for students to wear uniforms for safety. He says it's easy to conceal items in today's trendy baggy clothes. He also says uniforms garner respect.
"We're also trying to get our students to a higher level of respect. We want to raise the standards and get them to feel better about themselves," says Hamilton.
Some students say expressing themselves is what boosts self-esteem, but administrators say some looks are distracting. Sophomore Tyler Thomas has a alternative to uniforms.
"I think it's more about enforcing the dress code we have right now. Teachers are saying it's kind of gross seeing women with cleavage and guys with their underwear hanging out," says Thomas.
The majority has answered "yes" to the survey, meaning baggy jeans and hoodies will most likely be a thing of the past. At least one student is okay with the idea of uniforms.
"It's not that big of a deal. You don't have to wear those clothes outside school. You're not going to school to be cool I guess," says Senior Corey Comer.
Officials will tally survey results and make a recommendation to the school board based on the majority.
The school board will decide whether to adopt the item at their meeting in May.
