Page 14 THE VILLADOM TIMES III • November 23, 2011 Opinions on uniform option aired by Jennifer Crusco Several parents and two students have provided their opinions about a proposal that could require students at the K-8 Ho-Ho-Kus Public School to wear uniforms. The concept, which would allow students to choose a variety of weather-appropriate clothing in similar colors, was discussed in detail at last week’s school board meeting. Before the board accepted public comments, trustee John Buffa welcomed several students from the school to model outfits that could be part of a uniform requirement. The students wore a variety of khaki, dark blue, and white clothes, and Buffa noted that some of the students already had these items in their wardrobes. The range of clothing included navy pants worn with a white collared shortsleeved shirt, a dark blue shirt paired with khaki walking shorts, and a navy skirt with a white shirt and navy cardigan. A board handout included cost projections for various options, with average outfit costs ranging from $23 to $78, depending on the manufacturer. Options ranging from Target to Ralph Lauren were included. In October, district parents were surveyed about the uniform question. Last week, Ho-Ho-Kus Board of Education President Ellen Walsh noted that 458 people responded, with 230 in favor of a uniform policy, 209 opposed, and 19 undecided. Walsh emphasized that the board would not act on the proposal immediately, adding that last week’s meeting was solely for the purpose of soliciting input. Walsh said the idea for uniforms has been discussed by the board members for several years. She said many students come home from school and tell their parents they feel like they’re not wearing the right clothes. Walsh added that, in warm weather, she hears comments that some students dress for school as though they were going to the beach. Walsh said the board believes there are merits to uniforms, which she said would include the school pride. She pointed to the school soccer team members who decided to wear the same sweatshirts and jackets, and are proud to wear those items. Uniforms, she added, would foster unity and school spirit, and promote a culture of respect, while eliminating the distraction and pressure to dress a certain way. She also said uniforms would eliminate bullying associated with clothing choices. Walsh also said the uniform option could be less costly for parents. She also pointed out that, when a uniform policy is in place, it is easy to spot anyone who does not belong in the school building. The board president noted that, according to state law, the school board is permitted to implement a policy requiring uniforms, provided that certain conditions are met. For example, the district would be required to provide economic assistance to those who cannot afford the necessary clothing, and the uniform choices would have to be selected by a committee. Walsh emphasized that the district would not require parents to shop at any one place, and noted that, no decision would be carried out during the current school year. Trustees Buffa and Colleen Federer are currently researching options, policies, and developing recommendations regarding the uniform proposal. To date, the trustees have agreed that the clothing should be neat and comfortable, but should not consist of just one outfit. Instead, the board is considering a range of acceptable clothing that would not be financially burdensome. Buffa said some who oppose uniforms say they violate students’ freedom of expression and individuality. He also acknowledged that there is conflicting information (continued on page 15) Ho-Ho-Kus Police Officer Anthony Balestrieri and Sergeant Chris Minchin review the results of the borough’s American Medicine Chest Challenge. This year, participants turned in approximately 50 pounds of unused or expired medicine. These medications will be destroyed by the Drug Enforcement Agency. Meeting the challenge