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Read comments (79)"It is not right to tell anyone what to wear," said Connie Hasty, one of the speakers.
The forum was held Thursday night at the Community High School auditorium. All of the speakers Thursday night were in opposition to SSA, and some of them expressed their points passionately, drawing applause from others in attendance.
One school administrator, who is not part of the decision-making process on this issue, later told the Times-Gazette he knew of a private citizen who attended planning to speak in favor of SSA but who kept quiet because she felt intimidated by the overall atmosphere at the forum.
The school board has circulated a draft SSA proposal, although board members say it is just a basis for discussion and could well be revised before the final vote. The proposal disallows T-shirts and jeans in favor of solid-colored collared shirts and khaki-style pants (or skirts) in a limited number of colors.
Supporters of SSA claim it improves school atmosphere and safety and helps to downplay class differences between students. Opponents dispute those claims and say SSA unfairly penalizes students and parents.
The first public forum, held in November at Liberty School, was divided between SSA supporters and opponents, but December's forum at Cascade was, like last night's, unanimously opposed.
"Does this [forum] matter?" asked Mark Smith, one of Thursday's participants. "Or is this a foregone conclusion?"
"This is not a foregone conclusion," said Bedford County Board of Education Chairman Barry Cooper.
The final forum will be held Feb. 11 at Harris Middle School. Unlike the first three forums, it will not be held on the same night as a school board meeting and therefore will not be scheduled as tightly.
The school board hopes to take an up-or-down vote on the issue at its Feb. 21 meeting.
For this week's forum, the school board had prepared a "frequently-asked questions" (FAQ) document based on discussion at the first two forums. Cooper said it didn't represent a formal board position paper -- since the board hasn't voted to adopt SSA -- but that it is meant to facilitate discussion by explaining the reasons the board felt SSA was worth studying.
Later, at the end of the forum, Cooper said that many of the issues raised by commenters were already covered by the FAQ, and urged those attending to take it home and read it.
The opponents who spoke Thursday night raised a number of issues.
Chuck Craig of Bell Buckle noted a prohibition on hats or headgear which extended to "school functions," which Craig assumed included sporting events. He ridiculed the idea of not being able to wear a cap to a baseball or football game. Later, School Superintendent Ed Gray said "school functions" referred to required academic activities and said the SSA policy clearly does not apply to sporting events or other extracurricular activities.
Craig also noted that SSA supporters justify the prohibition on outerwear on the basis of security -- loose garments can be used to conceal weapons. However, blazers and suit coats are allowed under the policy -- and they could conceal weapons just as easily, he said.
"I could probably stand here for 20 minutes and pick this apart finding things that don't make sense," said Craig.
The prohibition on wearing outerwear into the classroom ignores problems with keeping some rooms at a comfortable temperature, said one speaker.
"It is freezing outside, and some of the classrooms are freezing too," she said.
Several speakers claimed or implied that SSA is driven by problems with dress code enforcement at Central High School and said it's unfair to penalize Cascade and Community as a result.
"The current dress code seems to work fine at Cascade High School," said Craig.
"If someone has holes in their jeans, we put duct tape over it," said Delene Peters.
SSA opponents frequently say that what is needed is better enforcement of existing dress codes.
"If you can't enforce what you've got," said Amanda Reed, "then what's the point of starting anew?"
SSA supporters claim it's actually easier to enforce SSA -- a short list of what students can wear -- than to enforce a long and frequently-changing list of what students can't wear.
"Administrators could literally spend their entire day trying to enforce such a code...." states the FAQ. "Those systems who have implemented SSA tell us that enforcement of dress code is much easier with SSA."
One speaker, who did not state his name, recalled being sent home for having facial hair when he was a student. He said that the "hippie" generation of the 1960s was criticized for its dress and appearance, but ultimately added something to society.
"There's a lot of good contributions that came out of that generation," he said.
Chad Dennis quoted several of the mottos and principles from the school system's own web site which he implied were in opposition to SSA, such as "The freedom to create stimulates growth."
The FAQ says that SSA isn't intended to stifle freedom of expression, which it claims can still be exercised in many other ways.
Dennis said that it's part of growing up to have to learn to get along with all types of people. He noted the ideals of personal discipline, decision-making and accountability cited on the school system's web site.
Metro Nashville, which adopted SSA last fall, was one of the school systems visited by Bedford County school board members during their research, but Dennis said Metro is a poor role model.
"Metro Schools is a train wreck of an educational system," he said.
In addition to the opportunity to speak, those attending the forum were given comment cards, a new addition to the process. Also, Community High School student Marissa Jones presented school board members with letters from students about the issue.
Note: The nature of the Internet makes it impractical for our staff to review every comment. If you feel that a comment is offensive, please
I'm way late responding to this, but I just had to after reading moxiemom's comments. Sour grapes moxiemom, eh?
I didn't say the children were in school anymore...
One Board member currently has two children in school and some of the others have grandchildren in school. Who is the board member who has raised their children so bad?
I know of one that does out of the two that I know personally. I really do not know about the rest.
Most of the lower grades do have all the same folders,crayons. etc... You pay a supply fee at the begining of the year instead of going out and buying all the different things.
I don't know them all but I do know a couple of them do..so I am not much help to you.
Can anyone tell me how many school board members have children in school???
Ha! It's funny when we have a school board member who has done a horrible job of raising his/her own children telling the county how their children should dress. No wait, that's just sad...
Im sure the dress code will offend some of the new residents whether they are legal or illegal.
They have their own culture and will sue the city if they feel their rights are violated.
Like I said, keep catering to these people and see how our town ends up. I am sure we will not be mistaken for a respectable town such as Franklin.
They only connection I see with SSA and the new immigrants is ...Will they too be required to abide by the SSA dress code? If not, Why Not?
I guess the next thing we should do is make a standard for what kind of notebooks they can have. I dont like cats so if someone has a cat on their they should be made to buy another one. I also guess we should put weight restrictions on kids because thay are overweight. Basically the SSA can kiss my reverse of the word.
I love the SSA idea. I went into a convenience store the other day where a mother was complaining about it. Her argument was, at least her son wears CLEAN underwear when he wears sagging pants. Oh well, what else should I expect from a towm that rolls out a red carpet and caters to illegal immigrants and non-Christian refugees.
Thanks John Carney
What does illegal immigration and non-christian refugees have to do with a dress code? So now, we need to limit our influx of refugees to only Christians? If that's the case, then why on earth are you a christian, because if you only associate with them then you aren't doing your job.
I love the SSA idea. I went into a convenience store the other day where a mother was complaining about it. Her argument was, at least her son wears CLEAN underwear when he wears sagging pants. Oh well, what else should I expect from a towm that rolls out a red carpet and caters to illegal immigrants and non-Christian refugees.
Thanks John Carney
Just because there are a handful of students that don't want to follow the dress code now, why punish all students? Why can't we as a society hold people accountable for their own actions without punishing everyone? Some people want to be so darn politically correct about everything now that instead of enforcing the current dress code, they just want to make another one. What is a SSA going to fix? The students that don't want to wear the uniform correctly won't and you will right back to where you started. Girls will get the uniforms two sizes too small and boys will get the uniforms two sizes too big (but they are still in SSA). If these students and / or parents had any respect for the current dress codes then there wouldn't be these problems now. What makes the School Board think the mindset will change? What is the School Board going to do about the families that can't afford the SSA? Will they be set up like the free lunch program? Why should the School Board tell another family how to spend their hard earned money? It is easy to make the rules, if you are not the ones having to figure out how to pay for them. At least now you can get cloths for your children at Wal-Mart, yard sales, hand me downs, or even the Goodwill. If SSA is voted in, parent's options are very limited. Despite what some people think, there are still families living on a budget and are not getting assistance from our government or state. Figure up the income of a 40 hr a week / minimum wage job for one person and see how far your money goes. Before you start spending other people's money, imagining walking in their shoes first.
No the problem is parents that do not " have the time" to take care of there children properly of just don't care. That is the problem.
-- Posted by happymama on Sun, Jan 20, 2008, at 10:41 PM
So the way to solve the problem of the very small number of parents who don't have the time to take care of their children properly or just don't care, is to force all children to wear the same uniform... and if a parent doesn't care or have the time, then, like Diana said, what is a school uniform going to change?
And just what about Standard School Attire will make a parent care any more?
How many times do you think it would take for the school to call the parents to come pick up their child for breaking the dress code before they started making them wear the correct clothing? I'd say about once when they start having to leave work or wake up from their naps.
No the problem is parents that do not " have the time" to take care of there children properly of just don't care. That is the problem.
BTW the reason this is happening is people like YOU who wish to tell everybody to dress their children like your children. Maybe you believe if everyone is dressed the same it will make your children more popular or have more friends.
We have never tried to tell you where to buy your children's clothing or what kind of clothes to buy...but that is exactly what you are doing!!
When you went to school didn't they do class favorites? Wasn't Style one of the categories? Ever seen anybody in Khakis and polos shirts in any of those pictures? Wasn't the school promoting Fashion Style instead of conformity?
-- Posted by Dianatn on Sun, Jan 20, 2008, at 5:34 PM
AMEN DIANA!!!
My kids are in no contest, but since you brought it up. They are what you consider "popular". Glady they have made good chocies with who they should be friends with. My daughter made a very good choice at the begeining of the school year when some of her friends started making fun of a girl in her class who did not have the best of clothing. I was proud when she came home and told me that they were no longer her friends because she did not like them making fun of her. My daughters words exactly were "mama why did they think that they were better than her just because of what we wear, thats not right mama" this came from a 10
year old. uhmmmmmmmm... so what is that saying about the way that some of us "upper class" are raising our children. The whole world could go upside down and next year that could be some of our kids getting made fun of.. Not that I think that the SSA dress code will stop all of this but it will stop some of it.
I never said that you should buy your kids clothing at specific stores. American Eagle, and Aeropostle along with the rest of them have the same things that they will be able to wear if the code passes.
Hey all I am asking for is decency, which a lot of people now days do not have. If you or anyone else could come up with a simple dress code that does not have a long list of don't wear this I am sure that the school board will be happy to hear it. They are wanting our ideas, not just a plan no but what can we as a community come up with.
BTW the reason this is happening is people like YOU who wish to tell everybody to dress their children like your children. Maybe you believe if everyone is dressed the same it will make your children more popular or have more friends.
We have never tried to tell you where to buy your children's clothing or what kind of clothes to buy...but that is exactly what you are doing!!
When you went to school didn't they do class favorites? Wasn't Style one of the categories? Ever seen anybody in Khakis and polos shirts in any of those pictures? Wasn't the school promoting Fashion Style instead of conformity?
Take it however you wish, I personally don't like Walmart clothes.
You don't know me so do not assume anything about me or how I feel about other people.
Did not say that I did. I was just putting it out there. Not to be rude but just from your comment you are probobly one of those parents that don't care if the upper class kids make fun of the lower class kids.. Lets laugh at them guys they by clothing from wal-mart and good old mom is there cheering them on.
Thank God I teach my kids to respect all people no matter what "class" they are in. It is parents like you that is one of the reasons this is happening. Maybe that is why my kids have more friends that are under our "class".
I just really can not believe that you made that statment like that. I so hope that it did just come out wrong and that you did not mean for it to sound degrading to people that do have to buy there clothing from there, but it does.
That's just wonderful .....if you want to buy clothes at Walmart. I am sure Walmart will be proud also
WAL-MART has told the school board that when they voted to let them know if it goes through that they will make sure that they have the clothing in that will be required. This was stated at the meeting at Southside.
So no ww will not have to buy the clothing from a uniform company.
Once again, have you seen how long the list is of what not to wear? I do not want the teacher having to spend 30 min of class time to look at every student (checking all girls to make sure there belly is not showing and top is not cut to low, pants with holes in them, pants not being to low.. etc) then doing the same for the guys. I am not saying they have to go exactly with what the SSA dress code but we do need it to be less for the teachers to keep a eye on.
In my thinking, the way that the dress code is at the moment leaves to much room for what one person thinks, where one student would be called out but not another. If you think some of the jr. high kids don't have the same issue as the high school kids think again. A woman was showing her childs picture from school that was in jr. high and her shirt was cut so low I could not see how she kept her breast in.
The only incidents that I am aware is the fact that the schools do not enforce the present dress code. Thus children (mostly high school children) dress the way they choose and nobody says a word about it. I think this is the schools fault as much as it is parenting.If the schools would send these offending children home when they break the dress code and the parents had to leave work to pick them up they would make sure their child was dressed by the dress code. There is a dress code in place. It is not any harder to look and see if a child has their underwear showing or if a girl has her top so low you can see all the way down to her bellybutton than it is to check to see if every child has a belt on, the color of the clothing, the length of the skirts or of shirts are tucked in.
You can bet money there will be somebody hired to enforce this.
>>All of the speakers Thursday night were in opposition to SSA, and some of them expressed their points passionately, drawing applause from others in attendance.<<<
Enough Said
Is there incidents that happened for the school board to even bring this up? What prompted this proposal? Are they in cahoots with some school uniform company? I'm also concerned about the extra folks they'll no doubt have to hire to enforce this. Something tells me it would be relatives of school board members.....JMO
I would be fine with other parents dressing there kids the way they want if they dressed them decently. I have seen to many kids dressed as they are ready to go walk the streets of nashville. Now is it the kids falt, no. It is the parents who have chosen not to pay attention to there kids are care. We as parents pay attention to our work because that is what we get paid for, we pay attention to our favorite show on t.v., but not our kids. How can we as a hole community go to each of these parents and say look this is what is wrong and them actually listen and make changes for there kids sake. We (the ones commenting) obviously care about or children and want what is best for them unfortenly you can not say that for all parents. So with that our children have to look at kids at school half dressed, and with violence and drugs on there t-shirts.
That is it, what the magority wants. Almost everyone that I myself have talked to does want this but when they get to the meetings to speak they are so overwhelmed by the anger that is coming from the parents that say no to this that they say nothing. I had a get together last night and did not want to talk about the topic because of the differnt emotions that it brings up but it ended up being the topic anyway.
Out of the 30 parents that were here all but one wanted the dress code. I have a lot of respect for the lady that did not want it because she did not hide behind words like creativity or individuality, she just simply said she wanted to dress her kids in what she wanted and not what the school said to wear.
Through the conversation we talked about what other possiabilitys of the dress code might make every one happy. Think maybe that we need to put it all down and address the school board with it.
The list of what not to wear is so long that at some point in time there has to be a revision of it. Like instead of pants can't be like this or that. Maybe it should read that blue jeans are allowed (no holes, no rips, must fit properly) Shirts can not have pictures or sayings on them unless they are bought through the school. Shirts must be long enough to tuck in (even if they are not). I think that shorts and skirts should reach with in 2 inches of the knee cap. That is just some ideas and I think that we all as parents sould be happy if we talked more about the solutions to the issue instead of just the issue. That is my 2 cents and take it for what you will.
I guess it stll goes back to the way we as parents chose to raise our children and we all have a different plan on that and that is not saying that any of us are wrong we just have different ideas. Will have to go and finish this later kids have sports (where they all wear the same thing) to do right now. Have a good day.
-- Posted by happymama on Sat, Jan 19, 2008, at 11:06
Exactly.. So dress your children the way YOU decide to.. and let the other PARENTS tell their OWN children what to wear. I am very anti conformity, and I just hate to think that Public schools have the audacity to envoke regulations that people who pay thousands of dollars in private schools do. Our Board of Education and all those who are for a Dress Code, should simply take a breather and think, "my goodness if only we were such advocates for things that really matter..."
They can hold county wide meetings about something as simple as dress codes, yet when it comes to the actual learning process, funds, etc nobody shows up. Why is that? Why have we as a society become so wrapped up in the petty little issues that we forget the true focus of purpose of school...
It makes absolutely no sense to try to enforce an SSA dress code when the current dress codes can't be properly administered. So, the "pro SSA" folks, where are the raw numbers and factual evidence to even present a miniscule reason as to the benefits? I have yet to see any substantial unwavering evidence, without bias.
You can dress a child in elaborate or dirt cheap clothing and neither one of those effect the brain. Let's focus on what schools are supposed to be doing, EDUCATING the children. We put them in cages and they each get individual results, not a single piece of clothing will ever make every student the same...
If wearing a uniform makes schools safer, improves scores, and adds value to children's school time, then why hasn't it had the same effect on convicted criminals who populate the jail cells?
I am on the fence here. I have one child in school and one in college. I can see on one hand the reason for s.s.a.,on the other hand not. When I was in school my parents bought my brother and I clothes for the school year. We went as a family to purchase these items and it was jeans, and button up shirts or pull over shirts with collars. We got nice shoes,new socks,a coat and a sweater.My parents were'nt rich they worked at empire pencil factory. There were also kids that did'nt have as much as we did,but they were dressed nicely with gim- me's. For those of you that don't know what that is ,it's hand me downs.It all starts at home.The way the kids dress now days reflects their up bringing. There is no such thing as family values any more. Look around ,what are we as parents teaching them? As generations come and go family values go. Marriage means nothing any more GOD means nothing any more respect means nothing any more. We as parents let our children be influenced by what they see. It may be at home or t.v. parents are not being parents any more. The kids need school clothes we give them money and tell them to go get what they need. What do we expect? Kids want to be noticed and be popular.I agree with indaviduality, but also morals and common sense. Like I said it starts at home and to me a home is mom and dad with common sense, morals and wanting to be a parent that teaches right from wrong. And I also believe that a family that prays togeather stays togeather.In that statement I think we as parents need to sit down and read GOD'S word and then teach it to our children and we can expect to have a different society. After all these kids are the future of our country. Do we think s.s.a. is going to make our kids any smarter? I dont't think so but, with pants three sizes to big and the seats dragging the ground and low cut shirts showing most of the girls breast's this all comes from HOME!Parents take a look in your kids closet and see if you would wear what is in there to work or to church. If we do our job as parents we would not be worried about S.S.A. In my article I refer to we as parents, that is simply because I don't want it to seem I am judging any one this is simply my oppinion as every one has their own and is entitled to it.
What exactly are the so many reasons to say Yes to this?
That is cuts down on school violence? That is not what the stats say look at Metro Nashville it hasn't stopped theirs, on top of that exactly what school violence have we had here in Shelbyville.
That it stops gang activity? How on earth would clothing stop gang activity? and again what gangs are here in Shelbyville causing problems?
That it makes the children more focused? How is it suppose to do that? The stats also show no school with SSA has any higher test scores.
Promotes school spirit? No that isn't going to happen either..schools have color days now only a small number of students even show their class colors by wearing the class shirts.
Promotes Team spirit? School is not a team. Students are given grades and merits by what they do as an individual. If they wish to belong to a team there are all kinds of sports programs for that purpose.
Boost Attendance? Wrong, if anything it will lower attendance. Again look at the stats.
Stops guns from being smuggled into schools? When was there ever a gun smuggled into any school here in Shelbyville by a student?
Less expensive? I think not, buying 2 wardrobes can not be less expensive than having one anyway you look at it these children will not wear these SSA clothes at night or weekends thus that means you buy 2 wardrobes. On top of that who are you or the School Board to say how much a parent is suppose to spend on clothing.
Gives the Child more pride in himself? I truly find that humorous. How would Khaki pants and a button up shirt instill pride anymore than jeans and a sweatshirt would? Pride in ones self comes from within not from the clothes they wear.
"You can put a drunken bum in a suit and tie but in the end he's still a drunken bum in a suit and tie"
So it looks to me like the only argument you have for SSA is to make the children more equal and I am sorry dressing your child like every other child is not going to give them a different status among their peers. It's not going to make your child's class one big happy family.
As far as Southside School being for SSA that's fine if that's what they want. Why don't the board let each individual school decide whether to use SSA there is no law saying it must be County Wide.
I would have no problem with SSA if the majority of the parents and children wanted SSA. I still wouldn't like it but I would quietly go along. Afterall that is what Democracy is all about..what the majority wants. And it is clear the majority does not want SSA.
I am done agruing about this I won't change your mind and you sure won't change mine so it is a total waste of time. When in all reality neither of us have a say so in whether it is accepted or not.
oh come on.. No I do not think that and I myself live in one of the "nicer" neiborhoods. To me it is not the issue of money or where to get the clothing. I can go to American Eagle and by the same clothing as I can go to goodwill and find it with the store tags still on it (just did this week found a formal dress with tag of $200 and paid 99 cents). There are so many reasons for saying yes to this. There have only been a few reason's that people are saying no to it and I would never use any of them because that would be saying that I have reaised my children to be shallow.
Yes my children dress very similar to the SSA dress code right now. My son does not wear anything but a button down shirt and he does not look "nerdy" he looks good. He looks like a nice young man. I just personally think that we will have more school unity if the dress code passes. That is my opinion. I don't think that it steams from jealousy. I can afford to go by my children brand name from any store that you want (well at least I can now i could not say that a year or so ago) and I chose to buy only a sertain amount it is called limits and I want my children to know them. I also want my children to know that even when they are wearing there named brand clothing that it does not make them any better than the kid who can not. That is why i chose to buy a amount of there clothing from Goodwill still. That way my children will learn to make good financial choces and know that you can still look just as good as anyone else when you do.
I guess it stll goes back to the way we as parents chose to raise our children and we all have a different plan on that and that is not saying that any of us are wrong we just have different ideas. Will have to go and finish this later kids have sports (where they all wear the same thing) to do right now. Have a good day.
Just because some parents don't care, does not give the school board or you the right to tell every child in Bedford County what to wear. Those children need to be sent home everytime they break the dress code.
And if you already dress your child in SSA clothing what should it matter to you how anyone else dresses their child.
My personal opinion is this stems from jealousy. Parents who can not afford American Eagle, Hollister, Buckle or any of the expensive clothing want this, somehow they believe it will make their children more equal. When in fact it will only give their children a rude awakening in the real world. When their neighbors have a more expensive car or a more expensive house. Unless of course you think there should be a law that all homes and cars in Bedford County should cost the same thing.
But that is the thing some parents just don't care. So then our children see far more than what we would like for them to.
Going to the Bedford County schools is a choice. Kids can always be home schooled.
Hey I'm with you on the delinquent thing but there is such a long list of what not to wear and if the teachers call out one kid and do not notice another kid what is going to happen. There is going to be mad parents up at the school, right?
There are somethings that I wish they would change in the SSA dress code. Like instead of having a limited number of colors they could wear say that they could wear any shirt with a coolar as long as it is solid.
That is just my thoughts.
Well, if parents were doing their job at home and making sure kids are coming to school in appropriate attire then there shouldn't be any issues at all with how the kids look. But really, have a school dress code does really change an status levels among teens because family with money will be buying Ralph Lauren polos and khakis and the less fortunate will be buying the Wal-Mart brand and teenagers know the difference. I think the school board is looking for easy answer to problems that go far deeper and caused by parents and teachers not doing their job. I mean, any parents should know that it is inappropriate for the child's underwear to be half showing to everyone at school or showing half their cleavage . . . use some common sense people.
As far as team uniforms go--that again is a choice. Kids do not have a choice about attending school.
School is a job, but we make the choice on what jobs we want. If we don't want a 'suit and tie job' or a 'uniform' job, we choose another line of work.
Private schools are not the"real world". I have/had my kids in public schools because I didn't want them to be in a restricted environment and they could have achieved very well academically at a school like Webb, but it would not have suited them.
Maybe the reason for the problems in the public schools has to do with the fact that we have to allow delinquents to continue instead of expelling them. I noted that since OSS was at the Harris annex, there has been a drop in suspensions. Perhaps we could send the innappropriate dressers there also and not punish the kids who are conforming already--and it is a punishment to force kids who are complying with the current rules to comply with stricter rules.
Just another thought. Why do we as parents not look at school as our children's job? I did when I was in school. No I did not get money for it at the time but it sure did get me where I am today. Really, what they learn today they will be paid for tomorrow right? Please don't tell my kids it is not a job because I tell them all the time that school is there job.. :} oops...
**** my personal thoughts*****
If at any moments what my child put on there backs going to school hurt there self esteem then my personal feeling is that I have not done my job as a mother. That is my feelings how I feel about it. Which is not saying you are wrong.
We do not have any problem when our children have to wear the same uniform when they are on a sports team or going to church camp. At any time when a collective group is wearing the same thing it is a uniform. i.e. going to church camp and the kids from your church must all wear there church shirts. Going on school field trips and being required to wear a specific kind of clothing.There are many other things that we as parents have allowed and will still allow our children to wear the "dress code" to because we want them to be a part of something. So now we are being aske das parents for our children to be part of a bigger team and we are screaming no. I just don't get it.
Once again I guess it is just what ever way you chose to look at it. I look at it as a good thing as do others and there are others who just don't like it.
http://www.members.tripod.com/rockqu/uni...
http://www.geocities.com/school_uniforms...
http://www.principalspartnership.com/sch...
http://www2.selu.edu/Academics/Education...
These are several of the sites that I have looked at and some read all the way through. Like I said befor I think many of them are between 1995 and 2001 so they really dop not apply to today..
They do have the pros and cons and One of them has about 20 or more site links.
Would have my child in a private school? - Not necessarily so; these kids are in Public schools, if they wanted to go to private schools they probably would.
What would it hurt? My son's self esteem, he like some other children do not like these type of clothes. "They are TOO GEEKY, PREPPY, and NERDY" for him. Clothes fit differently on people so people tend to buy the type of clothes they are more comfortable wearing.
Hurt stores - May even leave alot of stores in a mess because everyone is buying only Collard shirts, and Khaki's, and they sure better keep a stock of the limited colors these schools kids can pick. Meanwhile their would be a TON of other school clothes, and outfits that probably want even get touched.??
"Let's see, I know, if I invested in Khaki pants, and collard shirts with a limited use of colors, and made this a Standard School Attire, and Make it a Rule that "EVERY CHILD THAT ATTENDS SCHOOL IN AMERICA" ""HAS"" to wear. I will be ""RICH""!!!!! (WHOOOOOOOW)...
Would I wear it?
If I was at my Job, Meaning I was getting Paid, and they had uniforms Of course I wouldn't mind wearing a uniform.
But as far as me going out in Public such as a store, library, in a shcool, or movies, I will wear what I want. It's a public place I don't need a "more than a dress code but less than a uniform" to go in.
Would you like a Law passed that said all women must wear a dress that covers them from shoulder to toe, and a scarf over your head that wraps over your shoulders, and dress shoes small heels, no open toes whenever you come out in public, ie. shopping etc. so that NO skin is showing but eyes and hands.
And that all Men must wear Suits with ties, and dress shoes, belts, shirts tucked in and jacket, and the only colors you wear are white dresses, and grey suits.
I'm pretty sure you would not, even though you probably want admit it. Perhaps they tell you that you can no longer say "Thank you Jesus, or God has blessed me, or in God we trust or God Bless America" in public because it may offend someone elses religion.
You already can not pray in schools, Give them a inch and they'll take a mile.
There's other things you can not have "God" in because of political, or offend someones religion. Give them a inch and the'll take a mile.
Phone tappings, video cameras -seen & unseen, some of these things you have no control of can and Probably are things you have to accept and have no say so. Give them a inch and they'll take a mile.
Some standards to clothing, "OK" but a whole Wardrobe change with MANY restrictions. Give them a inch and they'll take a mile. It want stop hear! They'll find something else to take away from us or say we can no longer have or do. It's coming. Give them a inch and they'll take a mile.
Just say NO!
I want you to really look at the list of what not to wear which is a very long list and see if you were a school teacher if you could look at all of your students at the begining of each class and have time to teach. I could not do it and I do not expect the teachers to take that much time out of there class then out children will never learn anything.
Oh it is not good in jr high either. You are right our schools should not have to tell the children how to dress but there are just some parents out there that do not care and some young adults that don't understand that not everything has to be seen. If your children ride a bus then they are seeing this as well.
I don't think that it is just what the kids are wearing to school now either. I think it has to do with unity and school spirit. I think that the dress code could help this. I think that there are a lot of issues. Do I think that the dress code will solve all issues, no, but it sure can not hurt them.
When we are on a team do we not all wear the same uinform? It is no different, these kids are on a team every day. Like I said before it is all in the way anyone choses to look at it.
http://www.educationbug.org/a/public-sch......
http://www.communityonline.com/local/edu......
http://www.bluesuitmom.com/family/educat...
These are not new stats (i don't think)
From what I have read it seams like there is no nation wide stats on this. It seams like each school system is sorda keeping up with there own. I think the last one shows the pros and cons also.
Like I said this is just what I think and I understand that some parents and kids do not want that I can understand that. It does not mean that you or I are wrong, we as a community do need to find what is going to work for our Children and our School teachers etc. There has to be a happy meduim.
Your children may not be adults or even close to it..but these SSA standards will be effecting 3 High Schools here in Shelbyville. Who it seems to be the cause for the need of SSA, as viewed by some anyway. These young adults are 14-18 years old and should have a say in what they wear. When you treat them as children they will act as children.
Teaching a child how to dress is no more the schools responsibility than teaching them about the Bible.
It is the schools responsibility to ENFORCE a dress code which they do not do at any school here in Shelbyville.
The only reason for SSA they could possibly come up with is the way the students dress and that is the fault of the school as much as it is the parents. If the dress code was enforced there would not be a problem.
Sorry, I thought that was the 2 that has the statics on them. oops. To late to go looking again though I will try to find the other 2 again later.
Like I said before I have found good and bad. Those were just the last to that I found I just googled school uniform statics. It is a little hard sorting though all the actual uniform sites though.
Oh!!! I am so wishing that it passes. My kids dress very close to what the SSA is right now maybe not as many kakis though.
I think it would be good, that is just what I think.
Would you mind showing me ANY stats that say it is good other than personal opinions?
And your already buying SSA approved clothes? Confident aren't we?
http://school.familyeducation.com/educat...
http://speakout.com/activism/issue_brief...
These are just a couple of sites that I have looked at they all seam to show pretty much the same thing and many of them show stats about a California school district. I don't think that we have all the problems that they had when they started wearing them. I haven' really found any recent information though and would be intrested if someone found some.
Why I do not know, I could not edit "Response by John Carney" from the bottom of his response. I hit the back botton to remove it, It looked as if it was removed , but once hitting Preview your comment button "IT was still there" ??? To much Editing? Oh well......
As a repair these comments:
If Majority of the kids are having a dress code issue, or even half of the school, then I can see why this may have Good reasons for being pushed.
But if it is only a few children, then these children and parents need to be talked too, not change all the schools because of it.
If it is because of Moral, values, self-respect and diligence, Then have the shools print them out a copy teaching them this to take home and study with their parents.
Or if it is high school students need to start learning about how to properly dress and how to conduct themselves in a professional manner.
Then have High School Dress up day once a month, (Like Career Day)and make sure that they are learning about professional careers, and how they should be dressed for different jobs/careers.
Make sure they know about the Pay scales, benefits, and the qualifications they are going to need to get the job. These are some things that will be BENEFICIAL TO "THE CHILDREN".
To help them decide what they want to do or be when they come out of school, and what they need to start doing to get the qualifications they need to land the job or career.
were made by ME. Sorry...
I think with this as with many things you can look and find as many stats that say it is good as you can find that says that it is bad.
Once again it just all falls back to the way you chose to look at anything. I about could guarantee that any parent that is against it as well at students are not look for that positive just the negative.
I guess that I tend to look at it as what would it hurt? I think nothing, this is not going to kill any of our kids.
If we all could afford to have our children in a private school like webb we would and would be proud for them to be wearing that uniform. Right???
Reading some of the things that have been taking place in some of the meetings, and the response John made, It sounds to me that this IS a done deal, and they are only wanting to hear from parents to more or less "Work Out Any Kinks" that the parents or students may complain about. And get everyone ready for the "BIG CHANGE" and it is a Big change
>Response by John Carney:
I have to say, I've covered pretty much the entire SSA process and from the very beginning, the board talked about doing public meetings and public hearings -- in part because some of the school systems they were looking to for examples had done so. I'm not sure they expected this much opposition -- they may have thought the hearings would be more for the purpose of fine-tuning SSA -- but your implication that they only held the public hearings after the public "found out" about SSA is completely incorrect.
Here's a quote from a story I wrote last March:
"Board members will visit the Chattanooga and Cleveland schools in May to research how the program has worked there. If they decide to move forward, they may hold public meetings or visit PTO meetings to discuss the program with parents and students in various communities around the county. They might even set up a special web site with information about the program and a chance to respond."
They didn't follow through on the web site idea, but it's clear they were planning on public meetings from the outset. Supporters of SSA claim it improves school atmosphere and safety and helps to downplay class differences between students. Opponents dispute those claims and say SSA unfairly penalizes students and parents.Craig also noted that SSA supporters justify the prohibition on outerwear on the basis of security -- loose garments can be used to conceal weapons. However, blazers and suit coats are allowed under the policy -- and they could conceal weapons just as easily, he said.<
If Majority of the kids are having a dress code issue, or even half of the school, then I can see why this may have Good reasons for being pushed.
But if it is only a few children, then these children and parents need to be talked too, not change all the schools because of it.
If it is because of Moral, values, self-respect and diligence, Then have the shools print them out a copy teaching them this to take home and study with their parents.
Or if it is high school students need to start learning about how to properly dress and how to conduct themselves in a professional manner.
Then have High School Dress up day once a month, (Like Career Day)and make sure that they are learning about professional careers, and how they should be dressed for different jobs/careers.
Make sure they know about the Pay scales, benefits, and the qualifications they are going to need to get the job. These are some things that will be BENEFICIAL TO "THE CHILDREN".
To help them decide what they want to do or be when they come out of school, and what they need to start doing to get the qualifications they need to land the job or career.
My children are between the ages and of 9 and 13, they are children. They are allowed to make choices that children should make and this is not one of them. I thank my mother for teaching me that lesson even though I thought she was so wrong. Now I relize that everything that she did was for my good and I grew up to be a productive citizen and would like to think a pretty good mom (voting still out on that).
They are chldren, but mindless by no means. They still require guidance and that is my job to guide them. I do not expect my children to act like adults. I expect my 9 yr old to act like a 9yr old and same for my others. I would no more expect my 9yr old to pay the bills as I would to vote on this issue as it would be a long term issue and children are still at the age of instant gratification.
How did I learn what to wear? My mom and I thank her for that some kids parents just do not pay enough attention to them to actually know what they are leaving the house in. I am sure that most of us that have commented are involved with our children and our children probably know how to dress, some other kids are not that lucky.
I know I have read why punish all the kids because some of the kids. Well I do not think that it is punishment. Every body wants to be a part of something, a part of a team and this will make the kids more of a team, and look like it. I guess it is all on the way that you look at it.
To be fair I have asked my kids what they think since this first came up. My 13 year old (boy) I don't care what I wear mama.
My 11 year old (prissy girl) well I don't know will you tak eme and show me what kind of clothes I can wear. I did and now she says yes. ohhhhhhh and then the 9 year old (half prissy girl half tom boy and very opinionated, very) all for it and has been shopping with me to get some SSA approved clothing.
Something this controversial and dramatic needs to be backed up with research indicating that it produces the results that are aimed for.
The Board is not producing any evidence that it will work and the Opponents can produce studies that indicate it doesn't and that it actually produces more problems.
How many guns have already been reported in Nashville this year. What about having to pass through a metal detector to go to a ball game? Did SSA prevent that? Did SSA in Nashville improve their test scores?
These are some of the questions the Board chooses not to address in public.
Remember how your parents asked you if you would jump off a bridge just because everyone else did? The well disciplined and respectful kids will just start replying--Why should I continue to be good if I will be punished anyway?
I agree that we need to address the Board Members with respect, but they seem to have presented this as "We might make some changes, but we are going to do it whether the majority agrees to it or not"
Why would you not want the children to have a voice in what they wear?
You expect them to act as adults and look like adults but want to treat them as mindless children.
First of all I do not want to sound argumentative, these are my personal thoughts.
We do need SSA. Do I think that this will bring up test scores? I am not sure. Do I think that our chidren should vote on this? NO!!! Do I think that our school board is truly lookin at this? Yes
We do have a long list of what not to wear at school it would be so much easier to have a small list of what to wear. If our teachers who are underpaid anyway looked for all the things that the kids can't wear each day they would take up half there morning just looking at each kid. It would be easier to spot who is out of dress code with the SSA dress code. Should this be done at home? Sure it should but most parents are at work before there childern leave home.
We all can pick it apart for the pros and cons and still get no where. Everybody that is going to be against it will still be and everybody that is going to be for it will be.
What can it hurt. I think nothing. It will not take away my childs creativity, it could possiably help expand it. It will not take away my childs individuality.How can clothing do that, I mean really come on are we raising our childern so shallow?
I think that the clothing looks good and you can buy it in all price ranges from $150 dollar pair of pants to $10. That is a parents personal choice on what they are willing to spend. So will it take out the "classes" the kids are in. No but it definitely can not make it worse.
-The total solution to this problem is, Make the Teachers/Board of Education/Principals wear the exact same uniform as the students.-
I do not agree with this because some of the teachers look as young as some of the students. I personaly want to be able to go to my kids class and know who the teacher is. Do I think that the teachers should be allowed to wear blue jeans? No Maybe differnt colored Shirts than the kids.
One of my children go to Southside and there was only one couple there that was against it when we had our P.T.O meeting and Mr.Gray and our board of education member that was there was writing down what our concerns were and everyones thoughts. I don't think that if it was a done deal that they would take the time to write everything down they would of just listened.
My last thought ( I know your glad that it is :}) I think that our school board is doing a great job, no one even thinks about the job that they do until they are looking at something that some people might not want. How many of us have actually been to a school board meeting
volfanatic
I couldn't agree more teenagers in High School do need to learn to properly dress they also need to learn respect and how to think for themselves. Forcing them to wear certain types of clothing is teaching them none of this.. I personally see nothing wrong with comfort at school.Jeans and a sweater or even a nice sweatshirt..looks fine. I work in an office and try to dress for comfort myself. If I am uncomfortable I am not nearly as productive.
Believe me when I say this, if I thought for one minute SSA would improve test scores or make children learn more or make them act any different, I would be the first to say YES, as would any parent who cares about their child. But there have been no improvements in any of the schools who have gone to SSA in test scores, behavior or attendance.
What makes us feel Shelbyville will be any different?
IMO it seems to me the children are the ones who will be effected by this, they are people who are smart enough to make decisions. Why don't the School Board take a vote among the student body at each school and let the majority rule. If perhaps the SSA is not voted in then maybe it would be a good idea to enforce the dress code the schools have in place now.
Maybe SSA is not the way to go, but certainly high school students need to start learning about how to properly dress and how to conduct themselves in a professional manner. Most company representatives who interview prospective employees most certainly will go on their first impression of the individual. If someone comes to an interview in baggy pants and a ragged t-shirt, the first impression may be the last.
I personnally think that students need to start preparing themselves for life after school both academically and professionally.
Oh How we all seem to forget How it was to be a child or a teenager.
Was there SSA when you were in school? Are you saying you didn't learn anything in school because you all didn't wear the same types of clothes?
I am sure none of you remember the fads we had when we went to school..you know those fads your parents hated!
Boys with hair down their backs, Hot pants, hip huggers, Spandex, hippie beads, Peace Love and Flower power, Elephant ear pants, mohawks,shaved heads, mirco mini skirts,Tie-dye t-shirts,Platform shoes, bellbottoms, halter tops,Shag haircuts,Army Jackets,Desert Boots,Tube tops,Peasant tops,Mirrored sun glasses, Chain Belts, goatees,coonskin caps,granny glasses, Disco, Heavy Metal, The Twist, Beatles, Bob Marley, Black Panthers, Hell's Angels.
I am sure you made your Mom and Dad proud!
John,
I don't think I was accusing TG of anything so I don't know why you need to back up a report. This was before March, it has nothing to do with the TG; this was in discussion for the past 5 years. When it was announced in March was when someone dropped the ball and was overheard and she made a fuss about it. So damage control took over at the Board and reported to the TG that they were looking into the SSA.
And as for me being completely incorrect, I don't think so. I know for a Fact and I can back it up.
I do not live in Unionville, nor do I attend or have children in Community School. I don't have many irons in this fire. But after reading the reports here, I am not impressed much of what seems to have been said.
Our schools actually teach more than they did when most of us were there, given the advancements in technology and science of the last ten, twenty, and fifty years. At the same time, most of us know that other aspects of our educational system have declined. Who of us has not heard about how bad American schools are when compared to poorer nations all over our world. A quick pass down almost school hall in 2008 will let us see some of the changes that have happened. Salary isn't the only reason that there are shortages of good teachers; ask some of them about the stresses of that environment.
Much of society's change has been imposed on the backs of our schools --and they (and our children) have suffered from it. Our school board, and educators in general must not, should not be held in disdain because they are trying to uphold a little better simblance of order and respect in our classrooms and hallways. I happen to believe that students dressed in a more appropriate manner will possess a little more self-respect and diligence than some of ones that are "letting it all hang out" literally. In all areas of society there are sets of standards that show the values that we seek to uphold. You and I both know what "Sunday go to meetin' clothes" meant. No one expects teens to be dressed in 'suits and ties', but I fail utterly to understand what is wrong with colars and solid shirts; with blouses and skirts. I happen to believe that if parents in Doolittle, Wheel, and Shelbyville were more interested in their students learning, and being respectful in a more safe and secure enviroment THAN letting their kids get their way while they dicate how their parents will behave THAT some of the blow-hard comments that were reported at the fora and that have been recorded here would not have occured.
My concerns are
(1) does the proposed systems make school a better environment in which to learn?
(2) will the cost be within the means of those who live closer to the margin?
(3) is it more or less enforceable that the current expectations of our students?
(4) is it consistent with court and other standards (and not subject to years of litigation, argumentation, and revision?
AND (5) whether questions and changes can be addresses in something other than an adversial manner. And, oh yes, what is wrong with the good ole' blue jeans in which most of us got most of our education?
Somehow I don't think I heard my concerns expressed.
There is no way this will be cost effective for anyone. We will all have to go buy uniform type clothing and other clothes both (double expense). My kids will be ready to change clothes when they come through the door!
Has there been any discussion of a petition for or against SSA?
Actually, the board didn't go to the public first, the public found out about it and raised some concerns.
There is NO facts that prove that wearing uniforms helped students learn more. In fact, there is a ton of evidence that states the contrary.
The fact remains right now, 99% of our nations high schools are lacking. Period. What is the single most important thing you can teach a young adult in this world? Self-Confidence. Everything that the current school system is destroys that one underlying developmental principle, to instill self-confidence.
It seems it is all about discipline to the regulators, but they are missing something, it is called Self-Discipline. How can we teach that when we don't even allow it in our schools? We tell them how to walk, we tell them how to dress, we tell them how to learn... Is there a right and wrong way to teach? What about learn?
Each child is different, each child learns a different way, Why do we need to teach them a different way to learn? Woudn't it be easier to adapt to teach them the way they would listen? How about treating them like an adult first? Then as a disciplinary action, take that away? Why do educators INSIST on teaching young adults as children? When I was in high school, we were treating as adults. Therefore, we acted as adults. We were prepared and we had fun.
I don't see why some people think this is going to fix the problem? Really, How do they think they can enforce this when they can't even enforce their existing rules.
Here's a quote from a story I wrote last March:
"Board members will visit the Chattanooga and Cleveland schools in May to research how the program has worked there. If they decide to move forward, they may hold public meetings or visit PTO meetings to discuss the program with parents and students in various communities around the county. They might even set up a special web site with information about the program and a chance to respond."
They didn't follow through on the web site idea, but it's clear they were planning on public meetings from the outset.
And mtsu fan
Here's what the purposed SSA says about Logos:
The school system will not require specific brands of clothing. No writing is allowed on clothing except logos or manufacturer trademarks which may be no larger than two
inches. School logos are permitted.
Hmmm interesting.
Maybe the entire town should go STA (Standard Town Attire) I don't like the way MANY adults dress.
As an observer to the events that have unfolded around the discussion of SSA, a few points of interest I feel need to be made.
The Board of Education has the ability to enact policies without hearing from the general public. I for one am glad that the board had the curtesy to extend an opportunity to get viewpoints.
It has been repeatedly stated that no final or official policy has been made but rather just a draft to allow a point of conversation. Individuals have presented themselves as having had a mandate placed upon them. This is not the case.
I am fearful that attacks upon the board for bringing this up for discussion are uncalled for and unfortunate. It bears to be said that if attacks are the common responses from asking for public input, then public imput may be minimalized. Face the facts, the board members are persons too, and deserve the decency of respectful conversation. The proponents of SSA are overwelled by the venomous manner in which opponents have delivered their message as well.
I personally am a fence rider who can see merit to both arguements. My greatest concern is the lack of respect that many individuals have conducted themselves with towards others. In summary, the board has conducted itself with respect to others but in return have found themselves "attacked".
Evidently the opponents have not been at schools picking up children and see the "worst dressed group of kids" come out the bldg. I am ashamed to even look at them. A change will be good for all!
this is all a bunch of bologna....... If I as a parent want to buy my kid levis nikes reeboks gap old navy or wrnglers faded glory or even sam's choice, what business is that of the BCBE. It is like Hitler has come back.
Evidently the opponents have not been at schools picking up children and see the "worst dressed group of kids" come out the bldg. I am ashamed to even look at them. A change will be good for all!
Evil Monkey,
"The total solution to this problem is, Make the Teachers/Board of Education/Principals wear the exact same uniform as the students."
Hey it works for the branches of the Armed Forces. They should give it a try.
If any debate is allowed, schools like it to be a conversation between appointed "representatives" that doesn't go beyond the color and model of the proposed uniform. Schools will simply reject any views that it's disgusting to 'discipline' children into wearing uniforms.
That brings us back to the first argument. Are uniforms part of some kind of training in discipline? Students bullying each other at school and acting silly, are these symptoms of oppression, or of a lack of discipline? And if there was a need for more discipline, how do school uniforms benefit in the picture?
Where school uniforms deliberately make children look silly, they symbolize oppression. School uniforms seem designed to make children look silly, making the teacher look superior by comparison, so that the teacher will have less disciplinary problems in class. It's a well-known teacher's trick to silence obstinate pupils by humiliating them. So, is the teacher a dictator out to humiliate children, to crush their developing personality? And are school uniforms part of this scheme? Are children - at impressionable age - delivered into the hands of an oppressor who seeks to stop them from expressing and developing themselves, both verbally and through fashion?
It may be hard to keep thirty-odd children quiet into a classroom under the supervision of a single teacher. But what possible benefits do school uniforms have in this? Do students perhaps turn into willing and well-behaved robots when dressed in uniform? Is there any research into this matter?
If safety is such an important issue, then surely there must be concerns that school uniforms constitute a danger to the personal development of our children! How safe is the evolving mind of a child in the hands of a system that puts discipline above development?
Again, if there was a need for more discipline, how do school uniforms benefit? Discipline doesn't result from fear, not from oppression. Discipline - if needed in the first place - comes with choice, not with an absense of choice! And how does wearing plain clothes disturb classroom discipline in the first place? Are some colors perhaps too loud? Should all kids perhaps dye their hair the same color as well? Let's stop trying to make sense out of these 'arguments', because the more you think about it, the less sense it makes. The conclusion must be that the advocates of school uniforms simply don't have any arguments!
The total solution to this problem is, Make the Teachers/Board of Education/Principals wear the exact same uniform as the students.
I have two children in school. I am very much in support of the SSA. It is discouraging to think that the voice of people in support of the SSA is not as loud as that of the people who oppose the draft policy. When I listen to people who oppose the SSA, I do not get a clear actual reason as to what would be a negative effect from having a SSA. The current standard of dress that is in the schools is not working for lots of reasons and having a SSA will not solve all problems. However, by making a change you are trying to solve SOME problems and make things better.
To the parents like myself: Hard as it is, we have to make changes in our lives to compensate for those people out there who do not parent! Okay that our children dress approapriately, but what about the kids who do not. You as an individual can not make that child or their caregiver dress in a way that their north and south cleavage is covered. All we can do as a group is try and set boundaries and guidelines to make an "even playing field" or set a standard. The new clothes that we may have to purchase is an inconvenience, yes. I have two boys and I'll pay the price if it means that there is a chance they can have a more "focused on education" environment. If kids are wearing standardized clothing their minds are not going to be focused on who is wearing what. Then, just maybe, their focus will be turned toward learning and personal growth!
Why be so opposed of change? You're taking a chance things could be better!
Honestly, the SSA approved clothing is ugly. This is some quack-jobs idea to form a cookie cutter prison like atmosphere. Why not make it suit and tie like every other job?
Oh I see, I was under the imperssion that the clothing had to be plain and that the clothing could not have a logo such as a Ralph Lauren shirt with the Polo Pony. But prehaps the stories do have solid plain clothing with no logos for kids to wear. In that case if they do kids could still wear the those clothes from American Eagle, GAP, etc...
I personally have not seen any major problems at Central.
Central has pretty much the same dress code as Community and Cascade.
As far as it being cheaper, I almost have to laugh at that. American Eagle, Hollister, and every other store carries SSA approved clothing. If you wish to buy your clothes at Wal-Mart they too will have SSA approved clothes along with clothing that is approved now by the dress code. But do not think for one minute teenagers will go from wearing American Eagle and Hollister to Wal-mart clothing.
You can not use clothing being cheaper as a reason to approve the SSA. You can buy your children's clothing at Wal-mart now, if cheaper is your only reason.
I ATTENDED THE MEETING LAST NIGHT AND HAVE 4 CHILDREN IN COMMUNITY SCHOOL. I AM NOT IN FAVOR OF THE SSA NOR ARE MY CHILDREN! I, AS A PARENT, AM NOT GOING TO LET MY CHILDREN GO TO SCHOOL IN THE MORNINGS WITH UNAPPROPRIATE CLOTHING ON SO IF THERE IS A PROBLEM THEN IT SHOULD BE TAKEN UP WITH THE CHILD AND THEIR PARENTS. I DO BELIEVE THE PROBLEM LIES AT CENTRAL, SO DON'T PUNISH OUR SCHOOL! WE HAVE GOOD KIDS THAT ARE RAISED IN A SMALL COMMUNITY WITH RESPECT! ALSO, I DID NOT FEEL LIKE THE SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS REALLY LISTENED TO THE COMMENTS, AS A MATTER OF FACT, THEY WHISPERED TO EACH OTHER! SO I AM WONDERING IF THE MEETINGS ARE DOING ANY GOOD OR IF THEY ARE JUST GOING TO VOTE WHAT THEY WANT ANYWAY!!
To me the SSA would be a lot cheaper on families with just having to buy solid-colored collared shirts and khaki-style pants (or skirts) in a limited number of colors. You can probably by those items at Wal-Mart for around $15-30 a piece depending on size of the clothing. I see kids everyday going into stores like American Eagle, GAP, Buckle,Finish Line, etc.. Spending lots of money on clothing to wear to school. I am quite sure they are spending any where from $40-$60 on those items a piece. Like Dave Ramsey says, you know how to spell spending to much- M.A.L.L. Just an observation.
If you are against the SSA and your school board member votes for it, then get rid of them at the next election. This is the only way to put the voice back to the people. After they are elected, they forget who put them in office.
I really have no dog in this fight, but I am just seeing how our county Goverment is gone to pot, they care less and less about the taxpayers. What ever your view is, thanks for standing up for what you think is right.
I feel we should still be electing the School Superintendent.