Uniforms work in private schools because the rules are strictly enforced.  If a student doesn't comply with the dress code, he or she is sent home and possibly kicked out of school.  I think it is very tough to have uniforms in public school because not all students follow the rules.  Plus, it is way too hard to enforce.   Our assistant principals used to haul kids to the office and have them change into old clothes that were acceptable.  Also, they would make students put on belts to hold up their pants.  It was a total hassle all of the time.  Oh, and they made them tuck in their shirts.  Minutes later, the shirts would be untucked.  

That's funny that you wrote this.  Our school (public) just sent out a survey to see how parents felt about uniforms.  Over 80 percent of our parents were for them and 90 percent of our teachers were.  But, our principal hates uniforms, but he says that he will go along with the will of the people.  

Here in South Africa, most public and private schools have uniform.  As our children have grown up with this, we have no problems enforcing it.  Yes, we do sometimes encounter rebellious kids who try to bend the rules, but generally they stay in line and know their boundaries.  I think to enforce it in schools in the U.S.A where the children are used to casual clothes, they will very much dislike the idea of uniform as it is not at all what they are used to.  Here in R.S.A we give the children special days when they are allowed to wear "civvies" and this is great fun for them.  All in all, I think that American children do not know and understand the value of uniform at school and will therefore rebel against it to prove their point.

I agree with you, not that I've really met American children, but I have heard via other people and the media, that discipline is lacking over there and I understand therefore that enforcing uniform is difficult.  

It is sad to think that some children and parents can't appreciate it.  It is just so much easier to have a uniform.  Children will rarely try to outdo one another, as to who has the best clothes that are fashionable and teasing will also be reduced.  Without the uniform, children are constantly trying to look better and be better than everyone else and make sure they are wearing whatever might be in fashion.  It is a nightmare when we have "civvies day" because the children really over do it and we have to strictly explain what appropriate attire is.  At least, with the uniform, the children look "normal" and look like children instead of miniature adults.  

I'm very glad we have uniform.  I'm sure you would be to if only the parents and children learned to appreciate it.