By Juliana Disla

We are expected to behave maturely at Passaic High School, but some students believe we are not able to do this without being given certain freedoms, such as the opportunity to wear our own choice of clothing to school. People frequently argue for their rights to wear regular clothes to show freedom of expression.

However, it is a form of school security to have all students in PHS uniforms. But should we be wearing school uniforms or not?

I conducted a survey with students in the school and got various responses.
Freshman Daniela Cuevas said, “Students should be able to wear their own clothes to have freedom of expression, and for some students it’s difficult to buy uniforms especially with the PHS logo. It would be easier to buy clothes at Walmart for five dollars.”

“Wearing my own clothes allows me to express myself, if I had to be honest. I own a lot of black clothes and I would rather be expressing myself then wearing these uniforms,” said freshman Jizel Cruz.

Some people happen to like the uniforms. Janessa Mejias, sophomore, explains that “wearing uniforms saves money. Also, it helps me save time in the morning when I am getting ready for school.”

Wearing uniforms opposed from wearing other clothing is the easiest way to identify students and helps to keep us safe. Some students counter that wearing school IDs serves the same purpose. However, it is easier to identify students in uniform rather than a small ID tag.

The PHS Student Council conducted a survey a month ago for all students during homeroom, via Google Classroom. The survey asked students which color uniform shirt they would prefer if they had the option to choose.
For students who are having trouble affording the school uniform, clothes, or anything person they need to attend school, talk to your counselor for assistance.