The possibility of requiring school uniforms next year drew criticism from some parents at Wednesday’s School Committee meeting.

Although discussion of uniforms was not formally on the committee’s agenda, parents used an open comment portion of the session to voice their displeasure with the idea.

Chris Holbrook, whose daughter will be a Wareham High School senior next year, told the committee that Wareham is not the place for school uniforms.  Besides, “to buy school uniforms for one year is a little bit of a waste,” she said.

Holbrook questioned how the 50 percent of Wareham residents who are considered low income would be able to afford new uniforms for their children, and wondered if uniforms would be subsidized.

The subject of uniforms was raised by Superintendent Kimberly Shaver-Hood several months ago a potential way of preventing bullying of students who cannot afford high-cost, brand-name clothing and as a way of “leveling the playing field” in an economically diverse community. Although still just a concept, Shaver-Hood has suggested that uniforms might be no more elaborate than khaki pants and polo shirts.

At Wednesday’s meeting, School Committee Chair Rhonda Veugen told parents, “We continue to gather feedback and opinions on the subject.”

She and her colleagues got some of the feedback Wednesday.

Shannon Rose, who has a child in kindergarten, told the committee that she doesn’t understand why uniforms would be imposed.  “I am against them.  They don’t let children be individuals,” said Rose.  Clothing “harbors who they are.”

As for prevention of bullying, Rose said, “For a public school, I think it is ridiculous.”

Parent Jamie Pelletier suggested that special needs students may not be comfortable in uniforms as some students have sensory issues.

Shaver-Hood said a decision on a uniform policy would be made in April.