Uniform for the Times

Illing Middle School started a new year Wednesday with a new look – uniforms.  Comfortable and casual, the kids look great, and the burden of "keeping up with the Jones" is off them and their parents! My daughters attended Manchester schools and didn't have to wear uniforms, there just didn't seem to be that kind of pressure on your peers that there is today, both in look and attitude.

And it does have so much to do with attitude. If a youngster feels confident in themselves – not boastful, not full of ego, not cocky – but proud, focused, determined, they can get through their school years without being put down by bullies. 

This is the lesson that parents must provide and which teachers and administrators can reinforce. As a community, we can do the same: give youngsters a chance to grow as we set an example of confidence in our town, proud of who we are and what we do, and determined and focused to make Manchester an even better place to live. A safe place. A happy place. A City of Village Charm.

So, wear that uniform, learn, listen, care, work together and join the adults in Manchester in being proud of it and caring for it. You're the leaders of tomorrow, homeowners, business owners, parents . . . do this for your future.