Wearing of uniforms is a fundamental part of school policy. Uniforms represent the school, and it is a way of identifying where students are from. It is also a safety issue, for example, when schools go on a field trip, it would be easier to identify the students in a crowd. In case anyone get lost, it can be used as a vital information for the authorities.

Mr. Honesto Encapas, the school Behavioral Management Officer has this to say, “uniforms can set your mind for studying. Once we are in uniform, our minds will have a studying mindset, and it makes us feel prepared for school. If we wear something else, we may not feel like studying, and we can get distracted easily. School teaches us to be disciplined in the way we dress. Wearing uniforms prepares us for our future careers. Different jobs have different types of dress codes and attires that promote professionalism.”

He said further that, “many students often get bullied because of their appearance and attire. Wearing of uniforms can lessen bullying because everyone wears the same thing. It’s more than just a dress code, it brings unity and order.”

“School rules were established to protect us and keep things in order, and they also serve a greater purpose in the development of students’ character and their future. The regular school or classroom rules allow students to concentrate and focus on their studies. Respect is taught and practiced because of the use of rules.”

Mr. Honesto Encapas also shared with us that, abiding by even the simplest of school rules can help prepare us for our future. Under our parents’ roof, we also need to follow some rules, they teach us about obedience.

Obedience is one vital thing that students must learn and always practice. Whether it’s just following simple rules or rules that might alter or change our lives, it surely will benefit us in any way.

Obedience can shape students’ character into one that could be appreciated by others.  Students often see rules as a barrier to the freedom that they believe they deserve. However, by obeying and following the rules, it can help them achieve freedom. It can also make them free from the consequences of their actions. They will be free from making mistakes from breaking the rules.

Footprints interviewed some students to ask about their opinions regarding the school rules and policies, and here are some of what the students have to say:

Uniforms

• The school uniform may need slight changes or alterations. Some suggested changes in the material used, and others said that a change in color may be good.
• Another student said that simplicity matters, “I think that the AIMS uniform from pre-school to grade 8 is pretty decent. It doesn’t have a distinct design, but sometimes it is better to keep things simple.”
• When we go to school it is important that the way we dress is appropriate in. However, it is also important to note that comfort and protection are things that need to be considered. Most students are active and playful.

PE class isn’t the only day students play sports. Without proper sports shoes when playing, accidents can happen.

Computers / WiFi Connection

“On the policy of monitoring computers at school, not only does it have an unwanted effect on the device, but it also takes away students’

freedom to do what they want to do on their laptops, especially at home”. As part of the school’s responsibility, making sure that students are doing their work is important. However, taking away control directly from the student’s computer may not be the best approach.

Monitoring Wi-Fi connection will suffice, blocking anymore than that takes away the student’s freedom over their devices.

General Rules

“I think most of the regular school rules are useful and understandable. Rules that prevent  students from using phones in their classes, running in the hallway, going out of the classroom without the teacher’s permission, etc. can sometimes draw criticisms from students, but it doesn’t change the fact that these rules are  required to maintain order and manage students behavior”. (aims)