Student Writer: Taira Cominsky

This week’s featured writer: Taira Cominsky

School: Saint Stanislaus

Grade: 8

Teacher: Mr. Fuller

What have you learned in school that makes you a better writer? I have learned in school that you should write in clear sentences so the reader can understand you. I have also learned that you should draw the reader’s attention. I believe that these things have made me a better writer.

What is your favorite book? My favorite book is Just Listen by Sarah Dessen.

What do you like to do outside of school? Outside of school I like to play sports and hang out with friends.

Taira’s writing:

     It’s the first day of school, and you have to find the perfect outfit to make a good impression.  Lucky for me, I don’t have this problem because my private school requires I wear a uniform.  Some people think this is not a good idea, but I think it is very positive.  In school, one of the most important things is your style.  The more you have, the more popular you will be.  With uniforms, there’s no discrimination based on what you are wearing.  Everyone has the same style.

            Clothing often decides who your friends are.  In most schools, there are groups of students who dress alike.  All the athletes dress differently from the preps, who dress differently from the musicians.  You may even avoid a particular person because of what he is wearing.  Uniforms require students to get to know each other.  This can be extremely positive for your social life.

            There are many styles of clothing, some appropriate for schools and others are not.  Some clothing contains logos promoting drugs, alcohol, and even violence.  Midriff shirts, halters, and miniskirts are advertised everywhere.  Since students want to fit in and be cool, they want to wear this type of clothing.  In most school systems, however, it is not allowed.  Uniforms help eliminate these problems.  All students look similar, fitting in with each other.  There are no distractions.  Uniforms allow students to concentrate on learning instead of what they are wearing.

            Money also plays a big role in the clothing we wear.  Not all styles are affordable.  Students are ridiculed because they can’t afford certain clothing.  Some may even feel pressured to steal.  Although uniforms may be initially expensive, they can be worn for years, making them cost effective and less expensive than regular clothes.  When my school allows students to have a “Dress Down Day,” we may dress casually.  We show off our styles and wear our favorite shirts with jeans.  Surprisingly, on “Dress Down Days,” students dress in a similar fashion.  We know each other well enough to be ourselves and to dress alike.

            I believe uniforms help unite us for a common goal, to do well in school.  It is a symbol of our unity.  They show everyone that we are more than just our clothes.  We are all individuals.  Wearing a uniform makes me feel better about myself.  I know I don’t have to try to impress anyone to fit in.