The government of El Salvador, led by President Nayib Bukele, has implemented mandatory nationwide dress and hairstyle codes in public schools to reinforce discipline and civic values. School officials have been inspecting students at school entrances to ensure compliance with uniform standards and military-style haircuts, including prohibitions on styles such as mohawks. Bukele has justified these measures as efforts to prevent gang recruitment and restore civility and patriotism within the education system. The initiative is part of a broader security strategy credited with reducing the country's murder rate by 98%. Recently, Senator Ted Cruz met with Bukele and Salvadoran officials to discuss collaboration on combating gangs and terrorism, highlighting potential lessons for the wider region. The president has also responded to critics questioning the disciplinary policies applied in Salvadoran public schools.