I attend the International School of Monterey, a space for learning but also for self-expression. My friends and I, like many other students, firmly believe that enforced school uniforms hamper our individual freedom. This policy prevents us from expressing our personal style, identity, and beliefs.

Not only do my peers and I dislike school uniforms, but many times we have created petitions to try and stop uniforms or at least have more days to express ourselves including one day a week to choose what we wear or have more clothing options when it comes to our uniforms but they have all been denied. I hope that this will change the way my school goes about school uniforms

Various studies show that school uniforms often fail to accomplish the very goals schools set when enforcing them. In 2016, a study from the National Center for Education Statistics showed that school uniforms did not statistically improve academic performance, instill discipline, or increase school safety.

It is crucial to remember that school should be a space, not just for academic growth, but also for personal and expressive growth. No studies conclusively prove that uniforms directly lead to improvements in student safety or academic preparations. Yet, uniforms do have a significant impact on student self-expression.

Thus, we ask the decision-makers of the International School of Monterey to reconsider and abolish the mandatory school uniform policy. We encourage our fellow students, parents, school staff, and all those who believe in the freedom of expression to support us in this change. Boost our voices and sign this petition.