The Milwaukee School Board has voted to require student uniforms for all schools in the district beginning this fall.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports that the new policy will allow individual schools and individual students to opt out of the requirement.
Already, about a third of the 150 schools in the Milwaukee district have uniform codes. Participation is voluntary and ranges widely from school to school.
Superintendent Darienne Driver asserts that uniforms improve the learning environment in schools, increase safety, improve discipline and enhance school unity.
About a dozen people testified before the board. Opponents to the policy contended it would stifle individuality and creativity among students.
“The basic district uniform shall be tan, navy blue or black khaki-style pants, skirt or jumper and a navy blue or black long-sleeve shirt with a collar,” according to the dress code. School colors will also be allowed.
Video from WTMJ-TV:
