Abstract
Problem and purpose. The purpose of this study was to describe perceptions of administrators, teachers, students, and parents in selected California K–6 elementary schools about the changes in behavior of the student body in those schools that implemented a school uniform policy. Methodology. The research methodology used for this dissertation was descriptive case study, qualitative research. The data collection relied on archival data and oral responses to open-ended questions that were designed to elicit answers to the research questions. Individual and focus group interviews comprised of twelve teachers, twelve parents, and thirty-six collective students from each of the six school sites. Findings and conclusions. The key findings from these data suggest the following conclusions: (1) Based on the perceptions of administrators, students, teachers, and parents in the study, the school uniform policy implemented at the six school sites promotes less competition regarding clothing amongst students. (2) Based on the perception of administrators, students, teachers, and parents in the study, the school uniform gives students serves to center students on academics, while worrying less about what they are wearing. (3) Based on the perceptions of parents in the study, collaboration between parents and the school staff is imperative when implementing school uniform policies. Recommendations that resulted from the findings. (1) Administrators recommend frequent dialogue with staff and parents about the need for change and the change process. Administrators stated that positive change occurred in student behavior when their students and personnel were empowered with the need to change. (2) Teachers recommend clear, fair, and consistent discipline programs. Teachers emphasized the need for students to know the rules and expectations. (3) Parents recommend collaboration and collective decision-making strategies for implementation and continued accountability of the policy. (4) Students recommend school and classroom rules to be written clearly and communicated effectively by administrators and teachers.