SUN VALLEY : Middle School OKs Optional Uniform

In an effort to curb student affinity for high-priced fashion trends and foster school spirit, Richard E. Byrd Middle School in Sun Valley has joined the growing ranks of public schools to adopt an optional uniform.

“We think we can minimize the cost of wardrobing youngsters and stress school spirit and self-esteem at the same time,” Byrd Principal Jerry Horowitz said.

The blue-and-white uniform, with pants and a shirt for boys and pants or a plaid skirt and blouse for girls, will cost under $40, Horowitz said.

The school’s leadership council approved the decision after administrators received a positive response from parents to a questionnaire about uniforms. Administrators expect that about one-third of the students will be wearing the uniforms when the program officially begins July 5.

Several elementary schools in the San Fernando Valley have adopted school uniforms, including O’Melveny Elementary in San Fernando, where about 60% of the students wear uniforms and San Fernando Elementary School where nearly 80% come to school in uniform.