As we know, dress code is a common thing across many schools, just like Greenwood High School. Students from Greenwood gave their opinion on what they thought about dress code being a thing, and while some agreed, some did not. I interviewed Keaton Forbis and Gabbie Croley to see what they have to say about dress code.
Starting off with Keaton Forbis, I asked if he thought the dress code was strict. He replied by saying that he feels that it is not strict because he can wear the same outfits to the mall and out with his family. When asked if the dress code should be stricter, Forbis stated, “No, it is definitely more strict for girls, but I enjoy having the freedom to dress as I want.” On the other hand, Gabbie Croley, when asked if she thought students tend to dress appropriately or not, stated that it is usually 50/50, and that sometimes it is like administrators only dress code if it is mildly inappropriate. I also asked both of them why they thought the dress code mattered, and they responded along the lines of no one wants to see others’ bodies, and it is good for people to show respect for themselves.
Dress code has its pros and cons, but I will start with the positive side. The dress code teaches young teenagers and adults how to dress more appropriately for a work environment. People want to see someone who is put together at work because they look the most trustworthy and intelligent. Increase in productivity has also been shown at schools with dress codes. When dressed more appropriately, students seem to focus more. A dress code also helps promote school spirit.
However, dress codes can have many downsides, like restricting student self expression because many express themselves with what they wear. Schools with a dress code often expect students to dress more modestly and clean, and this can even involve required uniforms. However, some families cannot afford clothes or new uniforms, and students can get bullied over what they wear. Families that are struggling can be made fun of, and it can cause many issues for the students. The last thing teenagers want to think about when they wake up on a school morning is “would I be allowed to wear this?”
Many wear what they feel they are most confident in and show their emotions through what they wear! Forbis and Corley gave us two different perspectives on dress code, which shows us the way others think. Keeping others’ comfort in mind is always an important thing, and you can express yourself in many different ways. While some students may dislike having a dress code, there are others that appreciate and respect their school’s dress code.
