ALBANY, NEW YORK - September 12, 2011 -“When a student wears a school
uniform, he sends a message that he is proud of his school, respects his peers,
and cares about his appearance,” said LaSalle Direct Care Training Supervisor
Troy Kennedy. “Another thing these uniforms do is cut down on any unneeded
distractions that some street clothing may introduce or bring to the classroom.”

On the first day of school, heads will turn when teachers and staff notice
students sporting brand new LaSalle School uniforms. Every student will wear
khaki pants and navy blue shirts featuring an original LaSalle logo designed
exclusively for these new uniforms.

Staff and Student Senators serving on the PBIS committee began discussing
the pros and cons of a school-wide dress code last Spring. They unanimously
voted to put into motion steps to implement a policy making school uniforms a
reality across the LaSalle campus. It is expected that the move will help promote
academic and personal integrity, individuality, self-expression, accountability,
self-esteem, and school spirit.  

Teachers are hoping the uniforms will help to eliminate classroom distractions,
better study habits, streamline morning routines, and promote good behavior.
An overall classy feel and sense of belonging will follow naturally. While there is
currently no evidence at LaSalle that a uniform dress code will improve learning,
it is expected that research will be conducted to measure the impact of school
uniforms on a student’s success in the LaSalle program.

As is the focus with everything done at LaSalle, the dress code policy was
discussed with the boys’ needs placed first.  Our boys come from a variety of
social and economic backgrounds.  In some cases the boys will arrive at
LaSalle with plenty of the trendy clothing. But just as often a boy will have little
to no clothes of his own. The new uniforms will make sure that no one boy feels
inferior to his peers.  

“Students can hold their heads high looking and knowing they are part of a first
rate school and residential treatment facility,” said Kennedy.