The New London Board of Education had revised the uniform policy that was put into place back in the late '90s after a comprehensive review concluded the wearing of uniforms in school has a direct correlation to success in the classroom. Having said that, I took a day to visit the Bennie Dover Jackson Middle School.

I contacted one of the principals, Allison Burdick, and asked if I could visit, her response was, "anytime." The school is broken into the STEM Magnet, Arts Magnet, Language, Culture and Leadership pathways, and the Renzulli Academy. The students looked great as they wore different shirts for the particular pathway they are in. I was thoroughly impressed as I walked around the building. It was clear to me that students were learning and on task.

Lawrence Washington, another administrator, took me on the tour of his part of the building and I can say this section of the school had the same type of atmosphere. As we approach the budget season, I would encourage the public to make an appointment and visit our public schools. I know when I left my visit at Bennie Dover, I was excited about what I had seen and look forward to visiting again in the near future.

Jason Catala

New London