The district recently introduced a school uniform policy for those in kindergarten through ninth grade. The goal of the new rule is to help students concentrate on their studies, not on fashion.
Eudes Budhai, the district superintendent, told the Westbury Times:
“We want our students focused on their academics, rather than other things that may interfere. It’s about having students take pride in who they are.”
Districts that introduce school uniform requirements can use newsletter printing to make sure parents and students are aware of the rules, and to help people figure out where to purchase their uniforms. With its new rule, Westbury is one of just a few school districts on Long Island that have a strict dress code. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, just 20 percent of public schools nationwide required uniforms during the 2013-2014 academic year.
Westbury decided to go ahead with the change after seeing a positive response to a community survey. Around 900 parents responded to the survey, with nearly 90% saying they were in favor of school uniforms.
The vendor with which the district is working had a presale event on July 25. Another of these will take place on August 16 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. During the sale, parents and students will be able to try on uniforms and either take them home that day or schedule delivery.