School Uniforms
Saint Mary's Catholic School requires students K - 8 to dress in uniform on all days, except when there is a "Tag Day" exception granted by the Pastor or Principal. Although there is a lot of discussion about uniforms and their effect on learning, Catholic School students have traditionally worn uniforms for generations. In addition to clearly identifying students as Saint Mary's students, the uniforms impart a message of conformity to community norms, respect for the individuality of a person, not their clothes, and a consistency that places an emphasis on learning without distractions.
"You may be reading this and thinking, "I don't care what the studies say. I just KNOW that kids are more conscientious and better behaved when they dress neatly and modestly." You're not alone in thinking this way. Research has shown that both students and teachers believe that students behave better and get better grades when they wear uniforms. This is called the "Halo effect." It refers to the fact that when we see one positive feature about a person, we tend to infer others. Therefore, if someone is well-dressed, we make additional positive assumptions about them – e.g., that they're conscientious and respectful." (Wallin, Dr. Pauline, Parenting, Do School Uniforms Make a Difference, http://theparentsite.com/parenting/schooluniforms.asp)
Specific information about uniforms can be found at:
- Uniform Standards
- Purchasing Uniforms
- Dress Code & Tag Days
- Parent Recommendations and Suggestions (coming soon!)
- The Uniform Exchange Closet