Each school, no matter public, private, charter or university follows some code of rules, unique to the district or even individual campus. For example, most public schools follow a dress code and plenty of private schools have an enforced uniform. Even though there are guidelines in place, problems regarding appropriate school attire are raised every day and a permanent solution has yet to be found.

Enforcing a uniform would make school simpler for students, faculty and less stressful on peer-pressure because it makes for less distraction.

Being “dress-coded” presents an academic disturbance because of what the student misses when they are out of class. AP and rigorous courses and the sheer number of classes that each student takes makes every moment valuable. Missing even a few minutes often means time spent making up notes or assignments outside of class. With a uniform, that distraction would be eliminated and furthermore, no fellow students are subjected to the interruption of someone being pulled out.

Uniforms are just one less thing that the average student has to worry about on a daily basis. With classes, extra-curricular activities, jobs and work at home, adolescents have a lot on their plate at once. Pre-approved dress means a few minutes of extra sleep in the morning or not having to spend time trying to impress someone with what you’re wearing that day.

School is an occupation and students should look the part. In order to be successful in day-to-day life, one must dress appropriately and with care. The way students dress reflects their desire to learn and their personality—it’s important for one to dress with respect and dignity. Learning to dress accordingly is an essential life skill and will continue in any occupational area.

On the other hand, many will argue that uniforms or dress codes are an intrusion of personal freedoms and expression. This is largely untrue because rules and guidelines exist everywhere—especially in the school and workforce. However, there are other ways to appease the system without giving up freedom of expression. Jewelry, hair, make-up and accessories are a doable way to show your aesthetic.

Dress codes should be a symbol of professionalism, not dehumanizing. Students should feel proud to wear a uniform or follow a code because it means that they are that much closer to looking responsible.