Do clothes make the teacher?
The Washington Post reports that the Howard County (Md.) school system held a fashion show of sorts earlier this month to show the district’s 200 new teachers appropriate and inappropriate ways to dress in the classroom. The district also distributed a pamphlet, “Expectations for Professional Attire,” among employees. District officials say they are placing an emphasis on the issue after noticing a decline in professional dress among some teachers.
Do you think teachers’ wardrobe has become less “professional,” and is that a problem? Should schools be more strict about how teachers are dressing for work?
Leave a comment below.
August 25th, 2009 @ 10:05 am
I believe that when the educator’s dress became casual it was a sign to the students that school was not important. It was just like going to the mall. Of course, I’m old fashioned and still wear a coat and tie to church on Sunday because I feel that not dressing to worship sends the same message.
August 25th, 2009 @ 5:32 pm
I have seen too many teachers who were not dressed as professionally as the custodian cleaning their room.
August 26th, 2009 @ 8:47 am
In some places teacher attire is negotiable. As one teacher told me when I was negotiating for the board: “If you want to tell me how to dress buy me a uniform!” The whole business casual trend, the teacher as “friend” instead of “model,” and even the way the university profs dress, sends the message the the type of clothes you wear doesn’t have any impact on how you are perceived and accepted.
September 1st, 2009 @ 6:57 am
Teachers should be professional in their dress. This sets an example to students as to what is acceptable attire in the work place. I do not know of any professional workplace that allows thong flip flops and sweatpants. Teachers are professionals with college degrees and should dress appropriately.
October 14th, 2009 @ 2:58 pm
I am a strong believer of dressing for success, regardless of the job. You always want to present yourself (as well as the organization of which you work) with the best foot forward. Teachers should not be an exception to the rule. While I can sympathize with the desire of comfort, I believe comfort, style and professionalism can go hand in hand. Actually, I just read an article on teacher fashion on TeachHUB. I think it’s worth looking at if you’re looking for work appropriate fashion.
“Top 12 Fierce Fashion Tips for Teachers on a Budget”
http://www.teachhub.com/news/article/cat/14/item/282