Uniform Information
School Uniforms - Background About The Industry
Parochial and private schools have a long history of using school uniforms to project an atmosphere of uniformity, pride, loyalty and equality among the student population.
There has always been an image of professionalism associated with having students in a school uniform program. It provides for a more businesslike approach to learning, removing distractions normally caused by the latest designer fashions sweeping the nation.
School uniforms also tend to involve students more, to make them part of a "team" at the school. This is not so much as to erase their individuality, but to include everyone on the same level as far as image and dress is concerned.
An important factor in school uniforms has been cost. With fashions constantly changing, parents have always felt the pressure (from their children) to provide them with the latest peer-pleasing designs. Uniforms reduce the cost of keeping up since they remain the same conservative style. And their cost, in relation to fashion clothing, is significantly lower.
The use of uniforms at school as opposed to the latest fashions, help students avoid ridicule, embarrassment, or abuse from others over the 'have and have-not' stigma.
Based on the long and proven history of the school uniforms in the private and public schools it has shown an increase in positive academic results. The mandatory uniform program in schools across the country is developing and gaining support from all parties- students, parents, administrators and the public.
Why Donald's Uniforms?
With over 50 years of experience in the school uniform business, Donald's Uniforms has proven ability to service a school's uniform requirements in a professional and competitive manner. Our knowledge and experience of the market and availability of our resources allows us to provide garments on a timely and cost efficient basis.
Donald's carries a complete inventory 12 months a year. We pay special attention to the area of half sizes for girls and husky sizes for boys. It is our commitment to give every child access to properly fitting school uniforms. Donald's prides itself on customer service. Our customers expect to receive help fitting their children and filling their shopping needs. Donald's tries to have on staff bilingual employees in case of language barriers.
Because cost is a very important factor to every family, Donald's uniforms are priced to be very competitive, even when compared to some department or discount stores. For a relatively low annual cost of about $150 per child a customer can purchase uniforms for the entire year. Our recommendation to clothe your student for this time period would be as follows:
| Recommended Yearly Uniform Purchases | |
| Young Man | Young Woman |
| 3 Pants | 2 Jumpers |
| 1 Shorts | 2 Blouses |
| 3 Shirts | 1 Sweater |
| 1 Cardigan Sweater | 1 Pants |
| 1 Shorts | |
Donald's has a complete shopping web site for Internet orders. www.donaldsuniform.com For your convenience our office staff is trained to assist you with telephone orders.
Donald's has an excellent return policy. Cash refunds are made within 30 days of the purchase and must be accompanied by a receipt. The merchandise must not be worn, laundered or altered. Without a receipt the same criteria is required and a Store Merchandise Credit will be issued. There is no expiration date on these. In the event something is defective or has not worn properly, for example if a zipper breaks or a hook comes off pants, these garments will be replaced during the school year purchased.
What makes a successful program?
Following are some key factors associated with a successful introduction and implementation of a school uniform program.
- Choosing the style of the garments should involve the parents, students, teachers & administration.
- Garments must be affordable and easily available in all sizes.
- The program must address and provide for seasonal options.
- The program must be mandatory system wide, yet allow for special exemptions (limited).
- A recycling program is helpful - garments are sold/traded to others.
One of the main success factors to be stressed over and over is communication between the systems, the teachers, the parents and the students. As more and more public school systems adopt the school uniform process, the debate will increase as to whether uniforms are productive or passive when relate to the actual learning capabilities of the student.
Helpful Checklist
Below are some helpful hints as to specific factors that need to be considered when establishing a school uniform policy.
The program will work BEST if it is mandatory.
It is better to begin the program in lower grades (K-5) first and let the policy grow with the students into the higher grades.
Partner with a business who has a large selection of uniforms and experience like Donald's. We know the business and we work to outfit every student regardless of their size.