WFSB Channel 3Parents decry school uniform change

Parents decry school uniform change

Parents whose children attend St. Bernadette's in New Haven are outraged the school wants to get rid of a Catholic school staple - the plaid skirt.

For some parents getting rid of the traditional school uniforms and swapping out the plaid skirts and jumpers for khaki pants amounts to sacrilege.

"It's a trademark, I don't think they should change it," said Nicole Clark, a parent.

Clark said she attended St. Bernadette's more than 30 years ago. Her daughter attends now and, for the most part, she said the school uniform has remained the same.

But that's about to change. Starting next year they'll put away the plaid skirts and jumpers in favor of khaki pants.

"If they have a problem with the girls rolling their skirts, they should get in trouble just like they do when they wear nail polish or crazy earrings. Give them a warning or a detention," Clark said.

In a statement, St. Bernadette's principal told Eyewitness News the move is a result of feedback from a school survey asking parents about any changes they'd like to see.

The principal said parents had concerns over the hemlines of the skirts along with complaints about cleaning the white dress shirts. Now girls and boys will wear navy tops.

"The new uniform is more affordable, alleviates cleaning challenges, will make a neat presentation, and overall, will offer the students an environment that is conducive to learning," the principal said in a statement.

One parent told us off camera he's frustrated over the fact that after spending a few hundred dollars for uniforms this year, he'll have to do it again next year.  

Even parents with children graduating this year are sad to see the change.

"The uniform is a sign of tradition for us. I respect whatever the principal says in wanting the change, and it won't affect us because we're graduating, but I do like the uniform. The kids look nice in them and look like a part of St. Bernadette," said Fran Proto, a parent. 

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