School dress codes teach pupils about need for rules

School dress codes teachpupils about need for rules
EDITOR:
The recent letter submitted by a Struthers student explains perfectly what is wrong with society; no longer are "rules" acceptable for kids. The student has a problem with a proposed dress code at the high school. She goes on to say that students are expected to "prepare to meet the standards and qualifications set for them in the real world." Yes, that is exactly what the school is attempting to do, prepare them to understand that during their lives they will always face a situation where there are rules.
A dress code in no way "stifles" creativity and individuality. If this were true, how does one explain the high achievements of many students attending schools where uniforms are worn? A dress code for students alleviates a form of competition unrelated to performance; it does not promote "discord." Tolerance of others has nothing to do with clothing style -- it means to be able to work and live with others peacefully and respectfully. To suggest that clothing is important to this end is silly and immature.
It is not the school's responsibility to allow their students to "break the mold" with outlandish clothing simply because it is what the student wishes to do. No one in the school system is attempting to repress or stifle anyone. The school is attempting to set guidelines that are appropriate for the educational setting for this age group. The student needs to understand that she is not in charge here -- the clothing style of her choosing should be reserved for nonschool hours.
CAROL JEAN HIRT
Campbell
Philomena should be forcedto tell pupils about his fall
EDITOR:
If former Mahoning County Prosecutor James Philomena is correct in his assessment that a reduced state prison time is in order, the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction should consider allowing such a reduction for community service. If granted, the community service should start during the school term.
Judge Richard Markus ruled a reduction is in order, but the state of Ohio differs in exactly how many more months should be served. There remains a question of 23 months.
I mentioned school term with the thought that James Philomena could be directed to attend high schools throughout this community and the state as an example to students that crime does not pay. A reduction of nine months would seem reasonable.
It is only fitting, since the criminal charges took place in this community, involved a local political figure and is the home base of so many convicted elected officials, he would start his community service in Mahoning County.
James Philomena could be directed to attend as many schools as possible and inform students how weakening to the temptation of money and corruption has impacted his life, the lives of his family and his disloyalty to the voters who entrusted him to the highest legal position in this county.
PATRICK STRANGE
Campbell
Is our nation headed downa road toward mediocrity?
EDITOR:
If talk radio is any barometer of the public mind, then the future of this great nation is questionable. Many Youngstown callers apparently want the government to provide cradle-to-grave care as long as someone else is paying. I can't understand why they feel they are entitled to free drugs, medical care, education, etc.
These attitudes will lead to dependency and finally servitude. If the fine people with a liberal mind-set can show where in the past 5,000 years of human history that this hasn't happened, I would be willing to examine it. The government should provide a military, build roads, scientific research, etc., not be a father and mother to its citizens. A safety net is necessary, but we should be allowed to fail and get up and try again. Freedom made our country great.
Socialism saps the will to excel and breeds mediocrity. This will ultimately lead to a much poorer nation in which all will suffer.
JIM McCLOSKEY
Boardman