It depends on which school system you attend.

In the District of Columbia, any school may adopt a uniform. But it can’t be required; students may decline to wear the uniform without further explanation or reason. And the school can’t punish a student who doesn’t wear the uniform. [1]

Maryland law permits schools in Prince George’s to adopt voluntary or mandatory uniform policies. [2]  To begin mandatory uniforms at a school, there must be a vote of 75% of students’ parents, and there must be help for families that can’t afford the uniform. [3]  The school can impose discipline for not wearing the uniform only as a last resort. [4]

[1] 5 DCMR § 2408.4.

[2] Md. Code, Education § 3-1007. The provision expired automatically in 2006 but may be renewed.

[3] Prince George’s County Public Schools, Administrative Procedure 0600, School Uniforms § IV(B). The rule is vague about the help. It says a school must have a uniform committee that “will establish mechanisms to accommodate families who may require assistance in obtaining a uniform.” That could be financial help or donations.

[4] Prince George’s County Public Schools, Administrative Procedure 0600, School Uniforms § IV(C).