Committee begins study on school uniforms
A committee at Marion Elementary School has started gathering information regarding whether uniforms should be considered, it was reported Monday to Marion-Florence Unified School District board members.
Member Susan Robson said the committee would provide a recommendation, possibly in time to affect next year. In the past, the board has required early approval of any changes in the dress code so parents don't buy clothing over the summer that later is deemed inappropriate.
"I've heard from some parents already that aren't necessarily opposed to it, but they think it should be K-12," Robson said.
Some schools have uniforms because they reduce the impact fashion has on the pocketbook. It reduces distractions and judgments based on what a person wears instead of how they act. Opponents say uniforms impose too much regimentation and stifle creativity.
Locally, the push seems driven predominately by changes in girls' clothing. Styles focus on exposed midriffs, high skirts, and low-rise pants.
"I've been amazed at the number of parents who say they can't find anything for their elementary school girls to wear," said Superintendent Gerald Henderson.
In other reports:
State fire marshal officials have agreed that a lift installed in the Hill Building would meet fire code. Board members approved a plan to seek bids for installation. Cost is between $20,000 and $50.000. Board members will decide if they want to take action at the April meeting.
A group of parents came briefly to express their opposition to a proposal that would move sixth grade to the middle school. They felt students were better served by remaining in the elementary. Administrators said the proposal was not finalized, but was one way to address space needs at both campuses.
A curriculum committee discussed the high school grading scale but concluded it should remain as is. The points needed to earn grades are more stringent than in some other districts, but teachers said it shows the district is establishing a higher standard. Some parents and board members have questioned the grading scale, saying students are receiving lower grades than they would in another district.
