Canadian here. I've been salaciously reading this tread since the beginning, with some serious culture shock. Now that Flowerpot has backed out, and is done endlessly repeating and distracting the conversation, I see the thread of actual discussion of real issues reemerging. The recent posts by makeourown and AnneGrommit seem to pinpoint the real implications and problems how I see them. I also see the logic in FontSnob's posts.
I have to say that as many concerns I have with my own Governments funding of education, and my local school districts decisions and policies over the years, I am so grateful to have my children in schools where the parents, teachers and administration, for the most part, band together as a community and want the best in both not only in education, but also in health, social and emotional well-being.
Also, over the past decade, our schools have been trending away from cookie cutter/robot style of teaching and testing. To the point that our province has mandated a new curriculum, started this year, that involves focusing on each individuals interests, strengths, etc. (Although how our incredible teachers are able to pull it off with the ridiculous lack of time, funding or support, I have yet to figure out... based on the experiences of my teacher friends, it's simply miracle and heart that are getting them by).
As for uniform, in my city/school district, there are 46 public schools, plus 10 private (ie. religious). Of the public schools, there are 4 that are uniform, those being the "traditional" (for those who prefer the old cookie cutter system), and are choice only, not mandated by catchment. Even if the private schools, only 2, (I believe), use uniforms. And none of our uniformed schools have hair rules. All styles and colours, (aside from the obvious, like swear words dyed/shaved) are accepted, and clothing rules are very basic, ie. no bellies showing.