There has always been an ongoing controversy whether or not to enforce a dress code on schools with gang related violence. But what is a dress code, a limitation on how much skin a student may show or a uniform like a polo shirt and khakis. People argue that California, where many of the schools are "gang related," should have a mandatory dress code to help and try to reduce the violence. However, a uniform dress code should not be enforced because it takes away a student's freedom of expression, has not been proven to enhance academics, and low income families can't afford pricey uniforms.
             Dress codes evidently strip away from a student's First Amendment rights. The law obviously states that anyone has the freedom of expression, and many feel that a uniform forces a student to express an idea that he/she may not believe. In addition, a uniform takes away any religious belief that he/she may want to display. No one should have that right taken away because someone of a higher authority doesn't approve. The factor contributing to gang violence is based on an inexperienced idea of what motivates people to violent acts and to gang association. Enforcing a dress code that prohibits students for wearing "gang colors" during school hours does not address the root causes of youth violence and doesn't do anything to barricade the violence itself. The uniform is supposed to help stop the display of such violence. However, the fact of the mater is enforcing a dress code will anger the students making them want to wear their colors even more. Aren't the most dangerous mobs of all the ones that wear uniforms?
             Additionally, studies show that grades may rise after a dress code has been issued on grade schools and middle schools; however, high schools were hardly affected. High school students are far more independent and shouldn't be told to wear a uniform. School should not be based on what ...