Schools

Auburn and Bethlehem Elementary Schools Moving to Uniforms for Students

Parents can elect to opt out of the initiative but are encouraged to participate.

School governance teams at two Barrow County elementary schools are implementing school uniform initiatives. 

 and are encouraging parents to participate and send their students to class wearing solid-color collared shirts, socks in solid white, blue or yellow, khaki or navy blue bottoms at Bethlehem Elementary and khaki or black bottoms at Auburn, among additional guidelines for shoes and jackets. 

Click here to view Bethlehem's uniform guidelines and view information on Auburn's initiative in a PDF document to the right of this text. 

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Marisa Grant, principal at Bethlehem Elementary, said that while parents can opt out of the uniform initiative, the school is not encouraging it. 

"Our school governance team, we offer an opt out, however, we are encouraging everyone to wear a uniform because of the research behind it, the sense of belonging, the sense of unity, school spirit, the discipline concept of it, improving discipline, improving school achievement," she said. 

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Shawn Williams, principal at Auburn Elementary, said 59 percent of parents indicated in a survey last school year that they were in favor of uniforms. Other survey respondents said they were not in favor but would participate if the school moved to uniforms.

"The reasoning has much to do with a focus on academics not fashion. Research shows students have a better sense of belonging when a uniform program is in place. Uniforms can also be a cost saving measure for parents as they are affordable and in many cases cost less than other clothing," Williams said. 

Parents in need of financial assistance with uniform costs are able to talk with school counselors about options that may be available. 

Grant said more information on the uniform initiative will be provided at the school's open house from 8 a.m. to noon Aug. 10. Auburn Elementary School, and all other Barrow County elementary schools, will also hold open houses during that time. 

"This is a school initiative and we would like for all students to participate,” Grant added. "We’re trying to make this a positive experience for the children of Bethlehem.” 

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