essay on dress code for teachers

Essay Service Examples Business Dress Code

Dress Code For Teacher's Success

Proper editing and formatting
Free revision, title page, and bibliography
Flexible prices and money-back guarantee

Our writers will provide you with an essay sample written from scratch: any topic, any deadline, any instructions.

Cite this paper

Join our 150k of happy users

Get original paper written according to your instructions
Save time for what matters most

Fair Use Policy

EduBirdie considers academic integrity to be the essential part of the learning process and does not support any violation of the academic standards. Should you have any questions regarding our Fair Use Policy or become aware of any violations, please do not hesitate to contact us via [email protected].

We are here 24/7 to write your paper in as fast as 3 hours.

Provide your email, and we'll send you this sample!

By providing your email, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy .

Say goodbye to copy-pasting!

Get custom-crafted papers for you.

Enter your email, and we'll promptly send you the full essay. No need to copy piece by piece. It's in your inbox!

The Benefits of Implementing Dress Codes in Educational Institutions

How it works

1 Introduction
2 Promoting a Conducive Learning Environment
3 Reducing Socio-Economic Disparities
4 Fostering a Sense of Community and Professionalism
5 Conclusion

Introduction

Dress codes in schools have been debated for ages by teachers, parents, and students. Some folks think dress codes limit personal expression, but there’s plenty of evidence showing they have lots of benefits. This essay will look at the good things dress codes can do in schools, like creating a better learning vibe, cutting down on economic differences, and building a sense of community and professionalism among students.

Promoting a Conducive Learning Environment

One big plus of having dress codes is that they help create a good learning environment.

Schools are supposed to be places where kids focus on their studies and grow personally. Dress codes can cut down on distractions from flashy or inappropriate clothes. When students aren’t worried about keeping up with fashion trends or dressing a certain way, they’re more likely to focus on their schoolwork. A study in the Journal of Educational Research found that schools with dress codes had better student engagement and academic performance than those without. So, dress codes help make sure learning comes first.

Reducing Socio-Economic Disparities

Another big benefit of dress codes is that they can help reduce socio-economic differences among students. What kids wear can often show their economic status, which can make some feel left out or inadequate if they can’t afford trendy clothes. Dress codes standardize what everyone wears, making it harder to tell who comes from what background. This creates a more inclusive atmosphere where students are judged by who they are and what they can do, not by their clothes. So, dress codes help make school a more equal place for everyone.

Fostering a Sense of Community and Professionalism

Dress codes also help build a sense of community and professionalism among students. When everyone follows a dress code, it creates a collective identity that boosts school spirit and unity. This makes students feel like they belong, which can improve morale and encourage good behavior. Plus, dress codes often include elements of professional attire, like collared shirts or blazers, which helps students get used to dressing professionally. This is a valuable lesson that goes beyond school and into their future careers, making dress codes an important part of education.

In the end, dress codes in schools bring several important benefits. They help create a good learning environment by cutting down on distractions and letting students focus on their studies. Dress codes also reduce socio-economic differences, making school a more inclusive place. Plus, they help build a sense of community and professionalism, preparing students for future success. While the debate over dress codes will likely continue, it’s clear that they have a lot of positive impacts on education and student development. Schools should think about these benefits as they work to create the best learning environments.

Cite this page

The Benefits of Implementing Dress Codes in Educational Institutions. (2024, Sep 17). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/the-benefits-of-implementing-dress-codes-in-educational-institutions/

"The Benefits of Implementing Dress Codes in Educational Institutions." PapersOwl.com , 17 Sep 2024, https://papersowl.com/examples/the-benefits-of-implementing-dress-codes-in-educational-institutions/

PapersOwl.com. (2024). The Benefits of Implementing Dress Codes in Educational Institutions . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/the-benefits-of-implementing-dress-codes-in-educational-institutions/ [Accessed: 19 Sep. 2024]

"The Benefits of Implementing Dress Codes in Educational Institutions." PapersOwl.com, Sep 17, 2024. Accessed September 19, 2024. https://papersowl.com/examples/the-benefits-of-implementing-dress-codes-in-educational-institutions/

"The Benefits of Implementing Dress Codes in Educational Institutions," PapersOwl.com , 17-Sep-2024. [Online]. Available: https://papersowl.com/examples/the-benefits-of-implementing-dress-codes-in-educational-institutions/. [Accessed: 19-Sep-2024]

Don't let plagiarism ruin your grade

Hire a writer to get a unique paper crafted to your needs.

Our writers will help you fix any mistakes and get an A+!

Please check your inbox.

You can order an original essay written according to your instructions.

Trusted by over 1 million students worldwide

1. Tell Us Your Requirements

2. Pick your perfect writer

3. Get Your Paper and Pay

Hi! I'm Amy, your personal assistant!

Don't know where to start? Give me your paper requirements and I connect you to an academic expert.

short deadlines

100% Plagiarism-Free

Certified writers

Dress Code For Teachers In Public Schools

This essay sample essay on Dress Code For Teachers In Public Schools offers an extensive list of facts and arguments related to it. The essay’s introduction, body paragraphs and the conclusion are provided below.

The currently imposed dress code standard by some states for their elementary and high school teachers is one of the issues faced by the US education system as of today. Drafted primarily because of the need to establish and fortify the sense of professionalism among the faculty members, the dress code policy is also believed to address the growing need to instill formality among the students.

It has been observed that students nowadays constantly cross the borders of appropriate dressing in schools .

Some students have been reprimanded by school authorities for wearing provocative and revealing outfit inside the school confines. The wearing of plunging necklines, miniskirts, flip flops and stiletto heels have been the subject of concern because these outfits distract other students, hence, learning and the focus on the school lessons are compromised.

Outbursts of violence are also stemmed out from the non-existence of uniforms in the public educational system. Because there are no uniforms, there is no way of immediately distinguishing which are the bona fide students from outsiders.

The US Department of Education’s Manual of School Uniforms, was disseminated to every single school district in the US as an answer to the above mentioned problem. This policy attracted various opinions and has sparked a number of debates among students, faculty members and concerned parents.

Proficient in: Teaching

“ Writer-marian did a very good job with my paper, she got straight to the point, she made it clear and organized ”

But, the heated debates are not only limited to the issue of student’s attire. The teachers’ ways of dressing have also been a hot topic and this has prompted several states to require its educators to adhere to a strict dress code. Some states require teachers to wear uniforms.

Why Should Teachers Dress Professionally

Throughout the years, the term “appropriate dress” has always had been given different interpretations by generations. What was appropriate during the colorful hippie 70’s may not be acceptable for today’s black suit loving generation. The standard of formality, however, is being bended with its limits stretched. The phrases “dressing appropriately” or “dressing professionally” don’t always mean the same among people . The issue of certain lacrosse players wearing flip flops attending a formal White House function caused some sort of a justification for some professionals not to dress up while in their respective professional environment.

An outfit generally deemed appropriate for a date can now be worn when going to work. Definitely, there’s a vague line between what’s appropriate and what’s not. And this vagueness is what’s causing the confusion. Recently, supporters of the said teacher dress codes passionately say that teachers, as mentors, chiefly serve as role models for their students and should therefore emanate an equally positive attitude through their physical appearance, e. g. attires. The teachers’ choice of fashion should exhibit professionalism and respect, not the current fad.

These supporters also argue that uniformity in the quality and type of teacher clothing can boost the educators’ as well as the students’ morale and respect for their professional field. On the other hand, opponents argue that these teacher dress codes harm the education sector’s morale by mistreating teachers and that strict dress code/uniform requirements violate rights given to teachers under the U. S. Constitution. In a mentoring environment, it is very important that there is an established role model. In a school, the teachers are the main role models for the students.

The students look up to the teachers and this is important in developing the students’ sense of behavior. Therefore, it is imperative that the teachers exemplify all the proper behaviors and ways. Aside from teaching skills, the teachers’ behavior is also very important. Generally, fresh-out-of-college teachers are the ones having difficulties in determining which clothes are applicable to the classroom setting from what are not. Before they were the ones seated in the classroom chairs, listening to the teacher.

They had the complete freedom of wearing what they want, be it skimpy and trendy, but now they are transformed to being the more modest and professional educators teaching in front of a classroom. It is understandable that in this young stage of their professional career, they have not yet shed their stylish and trend conforming days. Inappropriately dressed teachers are especially prevalent in elementary schools, where these entry level teachers are traditionally trained. Not all school districts impose teacher dress codes, however.

Some school principals customarily reprimand students and teachers alike for dress-code violations and fashion infractions while other school officials are not too tight about their student and teacher’s fashion sense. School districts that do impose such policies are very particular with what not to wear. For example, school authorities are currently implementing dress for their faculty members and staff in Arizona. They said that they want to set an example for students. Sexually provocative attires like scanty shorts, mini skirts, offensive tops, flip-flops and T-shirts are banned.

Tempe’s Thew Elementary School as well as the Chandler Unified School District is strict in implementing the dress codes. One school authority was quoted saying that if “they (teachers) could mow the lawn, exercise or go out for the evening in what they’re wearing, it’s likely not appropriate for school” . Pro-dress code teachers and school officials believe that dressing in a very professional manner commands respect from their students. People in authority are expected to dress appropriately always.

Teachers say that since they are expected to dress neatly and professionally, they should be faithful in adhering to the proper dress code standards. The Arizona Republic reports a certain Brian Black, who is one of the state’s veteran teachers, says, If I wish a student to dress ‘appropriately,’ it is my responsibility to reflect such (a) standard… If I wish a student to conduct himself or herself in an socially acceptable manner, especially in the area regarding use of ‘appropriate’ language when in contact with others, it is my responsibility to also reflect such (a) standard.

(Karina Bland, Sept. 13, 2005). Also, the Wake county Public School System has issued this memo: All faculty and employees of the Wake County Public School System serve as role models for the students with whom they work and as leaders in the community. Consistent with these roles, all faculty and employees shall dress in a manner and have an appearance that is appropriate and professional in light of the environment in which they work, the duties of their jobs and the impressionable youth they serve.

Supervisors and school-level administrators are authorized to interpret this policy and their interpretations shall be given deference. (Wake County Public Schools) The response of students to teachers like this is positive, as the students think that their teachers are really inspired to teach them. A profound effect on students was also observed in schools strictly implementing the teacher dress codes. Students emulate their teachers.

Because teachers want to appear more professional, and they want to positively address the nationwide clamor for strict professionalism, our educators and school administrators are dressing more businesslike. Certainly, the positive effects brought about by the teacher dress codes have encouraged more and more school districts to follow suit. But opponents of this policy have also argued and voiced out their opinions regarding the matter. Some teachers cite that the dress codes violate their academic freedom and freedom of choice.

No long term studies and researches that aims to assess the school uniforms and dress codes’ effectiveness with respect to its supposed effect of improving student’s behavior have been conducted by any research body. But still, supporters say that the implementation of dress code policies will eventually enhance schools’ educational achievement. These policies may even help in developing student behaviors. There are certain potential benefits that students will gain from these policies. Some teachers do find the very idea of implementing dress codes insulting, as if teachers don’t know how to properly dress themselves.

Definitely, this issue has raised a lot of other sub-issues: whether the implementation itself is appropriate, should it be implemented on a national level, should the dress codes and uniform policy should include faculty members, or what defines inappropriate dressing. The interim spokesman for the American Association of School Administrators, Bruce Hunter, said, “For us, it’s a local issue. Some people feel more comfortable with certain styles, and you have to see what dress does to the learning environment. ” . This position of the AASA resulted in the school districts’ different takes and views on the matter.

School districts consider it their prerogative if they would indeed implement the policy or if they would not. It is also the school district’s prerogative what to consider as inappropriate. Also, the school districts with more aggressive and opinionated teachers coupled with more tolerant school administrators tend to be more lax in their dress code policies, or they don’t have a dress code policy at all. The variations in the policies of respective school districts results in confusion as to what is generally forbidden.

Cite this page

Dress Code For Teachers In Public Schools. (2019, Dec 07). Retrieved from https://paperap.com/paper-on-dress-code-teachers/

"Dress Code For Teachers In Public Schools." PaperAp.com , 7 Dec 2019, https://paperap.com/paper-on-dress-code-teachers/

PaperAp.com. (2019). Dress Code For Teachers In Public Schools . [Online]. Available at: https://paperap.com/paper-on-dress-code-teachers/ [Accessed: 19 Sep. 2024]

"Dress Code For Teachers In Public Schools." PaperAp.com, Dec 07, 2019. Accessed September 19, 2024. https://paperap.com/paper-on-dress-code-teachers/

"Dress Code For Teachers In Public Schools," PaperAp.com , 07-Dec-2019. [Online]. Available: https://paperap.com/paper-on-dress-code-teachers/. [Accessed: 19-Sep-2024]

PaperAp.com. (2019). Dress Code For Teachers In Public Schools . [Online]. Available at: https://paperap.com/paper-on-dress-code-teachers/ [Accessed: 19-Sep-2024]

Publix Dress Code Pages: 5 (1273 words)
Nurses Dress Code: History and Basic Info Pages: 4 (1086 words)
CSB Dress Code Essay Pages: 7 (1829 words)
The United Federation of Teachers (UFT) Strong Advocate for Teachers Pages: 2 (359 words)
Schools Should Ask Students To Evaluate Their Teachers Pages: 2 (341 words)
Are Teachers Public Servants Pages: 2 (506 words)
Cram Schools: Bullying in East Asian Schools Pages: 6 (1624 words)
French Schools vs. American Schools Pages: 2 (570 words)
Why Junk food should be banned in public schools Pages: 4 (1186 words)
Sex Education in Public Schools Pages: 3 (826 words)

Illustration 3D rendering of a plastic toy kit containing a selection of wardrobe pieces for educators

Are Dress Codes for Educators Simply Out of Fashion?

As the business and tech worlds move away from enforcing strict dress codes, it’s time to reevaluate what’s expected of educators.

Your content has been saved!

It’s not unusual to see Alexis Neumann, the superintendent of Rapoport Academy Public Schools, wearing jeans to work, and the district head doesn’t bat an eye when she sees staff members dressed similarly.

As the leader of a small group of charter schools in Waco, Texas, serving predominantly low-income families, Neumann acknowledges that the work, though rewarding, is challenging—physically, emotionally, and cognitively. It’s important that her team feel comfortable while they do it.

“We require a lot of our teachers,” she says. “One of the things we expect is that they are with kids, on the ground with them, in community with them. That’s really hard to do in a suit or in heels.”

Though there are several nearby schools where educators are asked to dress more formally, a relaxed dress code policy has been a hallmark of school culture across all of the Rapoport Academy campuses since the schools were founded in 1998. And they haven’t seen any reasons to reconsider. Though the arguments for stricter dress codes are many—they reinforce school discipline, reduce classroom distractions, and mirror societal expectations, advocates say—Neumann reports no negative impact from Rapoport’s dress policies. In fact, it’s an approach they believe has paid off, something the district leads with and explicitly communicates when recruiting new talent.

In a candidates’ market, where schools are competing against each other for the best of the best, the difference between an educator taking one job over the next may come down to the details. Neumann sees relaxed dress code as a signal of a supportive culture and an incentive worth mentioning: “Putting that statement in the forefront lets us have follow-up conversations about what we really emphasize,” she explains. “We’re not worried about what you wear. We’re really only worried about the learning that’s happening in the classroom. We treat our staff as professionals, and they respond as such.”

A BONE OF CONTENTION

The subject of educator dress has long been a hot-button issue. While many would agree that clothing shouldn’t “distract from student learning, disrupt the school environment, or cause disharmony in the workplace,” as one typical policy puts it , what that means in practice is not only open for interpretation but often up for debate.

In 2008, a teachers’ union in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, expressed concerns to the school board over inequitable variances in dress code across the district : One school’s principal allowed educators to wear capri pants and blue jeans, another prohibited the same items, while yet another required an educator’s shoes to match their outfit. The Jefferson Federation of Teachers deemed this to be unfair. “We have this disparate treatment across the parish. We’re one school system, and all employees need to be treated the same,” said the union’s secretary-treasurer, Meladie Munch.

After noticing some staff straying from what he considered “professional attire,” a New York City elementary school principal banned jeans, flip-flops, and gym clothes in 2012; reactions were mixed. “I think we need to teach our children early on that there’s a certain way you dress to go to a ball game versus going to your job,” principal Marlon Hosang explained, undoubtedly speaking for many. But a parent in the community, Noemi Hernandez, found the policy too strict for an elementary school: “They’re dealing with paint and all kinds of things sitting on the floor,“ she said. “I don’t see anything wrong with jeans or even sneakers.”

Politics can find its way into wardrobes, too. In 2022, an administrator in Kershaw County, South Carolina, asked two teachers wearing Black History Month shirts to change them. Initially, he concluded that “no shirts with writing on them” other than the school’s name would be permitted but later changed course, permitting shirts commemorating birthdays or other holidays. Recently, the school district of Waukesha in Wisconsin adopted what they’re calling a “business casual” dress code, which explicitly excludes educators from wearing T-shirts, jeans, sweatshirts, sweatpants, “tight or ill-fitting clothing,” tennis shoes, and baseball caps, among other items. Their reasoning? Staff members, the policy suggests, must “set an example in dress and grooming for their students to follow.”

But many, like Erika Niles, principal of Green Trails Elementary School in Missouri, worry that dress codes for educators are an extension of other forms of professional micromanagement and control—ones that stifle identity and perpetuate the idea that “there is a dominant culture to which we all should adhere.” She adds she’s never had to address inappropriate educator dress in her two years as a school leader. “The pushback I’ve heard is… ‘Well, what if they wear a Speedo?’ Quite frankly, I trust my teachers to make those professional decisions,” she says. “Teachers are professionals. They should be given autonomy and trust unless they prove otherwise. And then, it’s a conversation and not a reprimand. We are in this together.”

Absent high-level direction from national educator groups or the U.S. Department of Education, school boards, superintendents, and principals are left to make decisions based on what they personally believe constitutes professional, appropriate dress. Educators occupy a uniquely precarious position, since many regard them as setting an example for how students should dress as adults—even if that‘s not the message they‘re trying to send with what they wear.

“What you don’t want to do is dress like your students,” says Dan Domenech, executive director of AASA, the School Superintendents Association. “You want to set a tone that you are a role model, and this is what a responsible adult looks like in today‘s world.”

But have we taken stock of what it means to dress appropriately in a rapidly evolving professional landscape? If one goal of educator dress codes is to model real-world career norms for students, then ironically, relaxing the policies may be the more logical decision.

WHAT DOES A PROFESSIONAL LOOK LIKE?

The trend toward more casual dress began as early as 10–15 years ago, workplace culture expert Jamie Notter told NPR in 2019, about the time millennials began entering the workforce. As the largest generation of adults living in the United States today, millennials have surpassed baby boomers in numbers, and the trend of employers moving away from more formal attire is growing to suit their new employees‘ needs.

Some of the largest, most profitable companies in the world, like Apple and Facebook (Meta)—where the same needs for productivity, focus, and self-control are germane as they are in schools—have shifted toward the new normal, allowing employees to wear T-shirts and casual tops, jeans, and sneakers like their respective founders, Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg. Hundreds of thousands of highly paid employees at these companies are regularly releasing world-changing products, from software you can talk with to self-driving cars. The companies think “that if employees are comfortable in what they are wearing, they can do their best work and feel more excited and included to come to work,” writes futurist Jacob Morgan for Inc .

The pandemic raised the ante yet again, transforming what people wore to work, and industries across the country adapted to the times to support it. Trend forecasters are calling it a transition from “business casual” to “business comfort,” according to Martine Paris for Bloomberg , with employees returning to their physical places of work dressed in some of the loungewear and athleisure they’d grown accustomed to.

Many companies have followed suit without apparent repercussions to employee performance. In 2019, investment banking behemoth Goldman Sachs loosened guidelines to welcome what they called a more “flexible” dress sense; female flight attendants on airline Virgin Atlantic can now wear pants whenever they fly and work without wearing makeup; and department store Target began allowing employees to wear blue jeans—a significant shift from their signature red shirts and khakis, NPR ’s Janhvi Bhojwani reports .

For a lot of schools, meanwhile, the transition has been much more slow-moving and fraught. Some view trends away from more formal dress as unprofessional, at times bordering on inappropriate. Others think of educator dress codes as a thin veil separating order and chaos inside classrooms—a factor that significantly impacts whether educators are respected and how easy classes are to manage, as well as student productivity levels and academic outcomes.

But there’s not a lot of evidence for it. Meanwhile, in Missouri’s Boonville School District, assistant superintendent Fred Smith has observed similar positive benefits of relaxing dress codes, as in the business world. “We wanted to minimize stress on our teachers,” he says. “Educators have thanked administrators many times for the ‘comfortable’ work environment and less stress during the pandemic.” Smith and the superintendent agree that there have been no negative reactions or repercussions—no spikes in misbehavior, significant dips in academic performance, or general complaints. Rather, he’s noticed that students feel more confident speaking and building relationships with their teachers.

Amid more relaxed dress guidelines, Smith has every bit of faith that his staff will continue to bridge the gap between comfort and professionalism, stating emphatically that “our teachers are true professionals and dress appropriately for the occasion.”

A WAY FORWARD

The controversy surrounding educator dress code may appear to some like a trivial tug of war—especially in context with pressing systemic issues like student and staff mental health or inadequate school funding—but these policies remain an important background condition for many employees.

Though schools are not businesses, working to provide a high-quality education is not wholly unlike working to create and sustain high-quality products and services. Both environments require employees to be trustworthy, innovative, dedicated, and adaptable—and recent developments in the business world indicate that productivity, professionalism, and more relaxed dress codes can coexist. One way to think about it: Why shouldn’t schools be open to adapting, embracing, and incorporating what other industries have seamlessly and successfully adopted without adverse effects—particularly if it means that school environments will feel more inclusive and that educators will be happier or even perform better?

In a 2019 survey of 2,000 employed Americans conducted by One Poll, 82 percent said that feeling comfortable in their clothes at work allowed them to be more productive, while 56 percent said that comfortable clothes were a major contributor to their work confidence. Seventy-one percent said that working in casual clothes allowed them to focus on their work, rather than their outfits.

Determining what feels balanced and equitable for one set of educators doesn’t necessarily translate throughout the school, let alone the district or state. Well-meaning incentives like charging educators a fee for the ability to dress more casually can come off as demeaning or arbitrary, says high school English teacher Kelly Scott. In many districts, jeans particularly seem to be “the one touch point that administrators want to control over everything else,” but Scott isn‘t quite sure of why: “I [sometimes] wonder if this is just another way to show that there is someone in control, to kind of keep us feeling like we can’t just go rogue.”

After years of paying $25 to purchase a “jeans pass,” which allows staff to wear jeans on Mondays, Scott decided she was done spending her hard-earned money. “If educators can survive a pandemic and teach at the level that they were teaching with all of these different extenuating circumstances, then obviously what we wear doesn’t have much or any bearing on an educator’s ability to teach inside the classroom,” she says.

Having no dress code at all can lead to all sorts of unexpected challenges—providing educators who may be looking for guidance with more questions than answers. But increasingly, strict dress codes can feel like a jarring disconnect from the way other professional fields are treated, and they run the risk of leaving staff feeling micromanaged, restricted, and diminished.

Executive director of the Association of American Educators Colin Sharkey believes that working together to cocreate dress code policies can prevent misunderstandings and confusion. Intentional conversations between school board members, school leaders, staff, and parents about expectations and how to meet them can help all groups come to a common understanding.

“Members of Congress have to wear suits when they’re on the floor of Congress, but when they’re campaigning, they wear something different,” Sharkey explains. “There’s different attire for different circumstances. If there’s buy-in from the staff, they’ve agreed to a certain dress code, and it’s written clearly and fairly, there’s far fewer opportunities for frustration and discomfort. Everything depends on the type of educator environment that you teach in and what the community has come up with.”

Some schools, like Christian Brothers Academy in Lincroft, New Jersey, despite largely suspending the educator dress code during online instruction, have gradually made their way back to their prepandemic expectations. Teacher dress mirrors student dress: Oxford-style button-down shirt, dress pants, and tie. Women on the faculty are expected to dress similarly, business casual or better. Humanities teacher Henry Seton acknowledges that what works for them may not work for other schools, and that’s OK. “Just as with students, school leaders have the right to set a dress code for adults with the school’s mission in mind, but ideally it should also be as minimally restrictive as possible so as not to limit teacher expression and identity,” he says.

Meanwhile, back in Missouri at Green Trails Elementary School, Principal Niles has a lot of other things on her mind outside of dress codes. She says that if asked, she wouldn’t be able to recall what her staff wore that day because she was busy focusing on more important matters, like the way educators interacted with kids and one another. “There’s not a whole lot I love more in this world than teachers,” she says. “They are the hardest-working people I know. And I think my greatest responsibility as a leader is to eliminate distractions that get in the way of meeting the needs of students. To me, that’s what a dress code is. It’s a distraction.”

As for the educator whose recent Tweet drew attention on Twitter when she shared that she was dress-coded for wearing bell-bottom jeans to school on a ’70s dress day, violating the school’s denim policy, Niles had a few words for her. “That brilliant woman in her bell-bottom jeans would be welcome in our school any day,” she said. “And the only thing I might ask is where she got them.”

Home — Essay Samples — Education — School Uniform — School Uniform and Teacher Dress Code

School Uniform and Teacher Dress Code

Categories: Dress Code School Uniform

About this sample

Words: 1112 |

Published: Apr 29, 2022

Words: 1112 | Pages: 2 | 6 min read

Cite this Essay

To export a reference to this article please select a referencing style below:

Let us write you an essay from scratch

450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Prof Ernest (PhD)

Verified writer

Expert in: Business Education

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

1 pages / 549 words

1 pages / 616 words

3 pages / 1514 words

2 pages / 1059 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

School Uniform and Teacher Dress Code Essay

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on School Uniform

Franklin, Aretha. 'Think.' Atlantic Records, 1968.

School dress codes have been a contentious issue in educational institutions for many years. These policies dictate what students can and cannot wear to school, often with the intention of promoting a safe and distraction-free [...]

In today's educational landscape, the debate over whether students should wear uniforms at school continues to be a contentious issue. Some argue that uniforms promote a sense of unity and equality among students, while others [...]

Alston K.G, Staden van J.G, Pretorius J.L. 2003. “The constitutional right to freedom of expression: How enforceable are school dress codes?”. SAJE .23(3):163-167. . Available at: http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/pelj.v14i6.

Introduction to the debate on whether students should wear uniforms Mention of the reasons for and against school uniforms Discussion of the role of uniforms in enhancing school security Potential risks of [...]

There has been a great deal of controversy in school districts around the world on whether or not school uniforms should be made mandatory. Though public schools started using uniforms back in the 1980s, the debate on whether [...]

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

Instructions Followed To The Letter
Deadlines Met At Every Stage
Unique And Plagiarism Free

KEYS to Teaching Success: Professional Appearance for Educators

Stating Clear, Meaningful Purposes
Make Learning Relevant
Higher Order Thinking
Make Learning Relevant - Examples
Rules and Routines
Creating a Community of Learners
Being Known Matters
Organizing Classroom Environments
Professional Appearance for Educators
Ethics for Georgia Educators
Appropriate Behavior in Online Settings
Academic Language for K-12 Students
Academic Language for Teachers
Professional Email Communications
Communications with Program Supervisors

Dress for the Job You Hope to Have

Take a look at the image below. What do you notice about this teacher's attire? Her grooming? Some people may think this teacher is dressed appropriately for the classroom, but others would identify reasons to make different choices:

elementary school teacher wearing tee shirt and pants with long scarf and hair tied back

Mazie Hirono at Kaala Elementary, Public Domain, 2016

One performance indicator under Intern KEYS Standard 9 points to a teacher's clothes and grooming: "The teacher maintains professional demeanor and behavior (e.g. appearance, punctuality and attendance)." This performance indicator, though, doesn't dig into the specifics about what that appearance should look like. This lesson will focus on a teacher's appropriate apparel and grooming choices and the reasons behind them. Your appearance has more to do with teaching ability than you might think.

Appearance Guidelines

Accessories

Appearance involves more than just clothing. As this section indicates, a teacher must think carefully about the appropriate clothing (which shouldn't be a teacher's nicest or most expensive clothing), hair style, cosmetics, jewelry and other choices that enable a teacher not only to show professionalism but also to function appropriately in a classroom.

Dress and grooming decisions might seem like a matter of personal taste. However, teacher appearance policies are more about safety and classroom leadership and less about fashion preferences. Keep in mind two important points about a teacher's work:

Teachers are required to hold college degrees that designate a certain level of knowledge beyond that of students. Just as that knowledge level sets you apart from your students, so should your appearance.
Students are often required to wear school uniforms or follow a dress code. Teachers who must redirect students out of dress code have greater credibility if they themselves exhibit appropriate appearance.

In short, your apparel and grooming choices send a message to your students and colleagues. You want to make sure you're sending the right message. Click on each tab of this section for specific guidelines on appropriate teacher presentation. You can begin with Apparel.

Because different subjects and grade levels affect a teacher's work, it's difficult to offer a precise list of what to wear and what not to wear. Changing perceptions of professional appearance also influence such expectations. In fact, in 2016 the Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools rejected a revision of the educator dress code after a school board meeting generated more questions than decisions (Few, 2016). Still, the state of Georgia has outlined guidelines (SS 3004) for faculty and staff dress. Those guidelines also note that a building administrator is responsible for assessing teacher appearance. usually that administrator is the principal.

City and county school systems can tailor their own specific appearance policies as long as they comply with state codes. If you browse professional appearances policies across Georgia's school systems, you'll see a number of similarities regarding what is appropriate and what is not.

These Choices are Generally Considered Appropriate

Collared shirts with long or short sleeves
Sport coats or business jackets
Uncollared blouses or sweaters with modest necklines and sleeves
Long pants or slacks
Dresses or skirts no shorter than 2" above the knee
Closed-toed shoes with backs

These Choices are Generally Considered Inappropriate

Athletic wear in general (sweat suits, warm-up suits, other athletic attire)
"At home" lounge wear and foot apparel (such as bedroom slippers)
Running shoes, walking shoes, cross trainers and other athletic shoes (unless athletic activity is appropriate for instruction)
House shoes, deck shoes, slippers, shower shoes, plastic sandals and flip flops
Jeans, shorts, sweat pants, bike shorts, tights, spandex and leotards
Undergarments worn as outerwear
Tee shirts and sweatshirts other than school spirit wear allowed on designated spirit days
Any items of clothing or jewelry that express political or religious statements

Even when a teacher wears clothing included in the first list, a principal may still object to those choices. Take, for instance, one Georgia teacher who sparked a national debate when her tight-fitting dresses (and her Instagram feed) went viral (Bloom, 2016). Although the teacher's outfits were the appropriate length, the building administrator deemed them "too tight or otherwise revealing" (Bloom, 2016). Whether we agree or disagree, the building administrator gets to make that call.

Please click on the next tab: Accessories.

Included in attire policies are expectations for accessories. Some system policies recommend that teachers not wear bulky jewelry. Many local policies specify expectations about piercings, restricting teachers from wearing piercings on places other than the ears.

In the state of Georgia, teachers should always inquire about local policies regarding hats. Even though an age-old rule of etiquette demanded that men remove hats indoors, baseball caps are still popular in Georgia, and people often wear them inside. Still, baseball caps are less professional than would be appropriate for the classroom, and many local policies recommend that teachers not wear them.

Please click on the next tab: Grooming.

Appearance is not only a matter of clothing and jewelry. The Professional Standards Commission (PSC) also outlines broad grooming expectations, such as the provision that teachers keep hair and nails neat and clean. As with apparel, local school systems often list more specific grooming guidelines. Don't be surprised if your school's policies include the following grooming restrictions:

An expectation that hair be styled so that it is kept away from the face.
An expectation that facial hair be trimmed.
An expectation that nails be of modest length and, if polished, a neutral color.
An expectation that restricts piercings to the ears with other piercings kept hidden.

Over the last 20 years, body art has become more popular and over time professional settings have become more receptive to tattoos. Still, because tattoos vary in size, color and subject matter, schools also vary their policies about teachers displaying them. In fact, one reason the Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools came to an impasse over its dress code was the conflicting opinions about tattoos (Few, 2016). For that reason, you should consult your school's employee handbook; make sure you understand its policy about body art. Don't be surprised if your assigned school requires that you keep tattoos covered, which teachers can easily do with long sleeves, pants, closed collars or bandages. However, even if your school allows teachers to keep tattoos visible, no tattoos may promote/display subject matter inappropriate for underaged students. Always out of sight should be graphics related to drugs, alcohol, crime and sexually charged content. The school's building administrator might add other depictions to that list.

Grooming expectations also include cleanliness, which is evidenced by appearance and odor. Some school administrators object to teachers coming to school smelling of cigarettes. Other schools might have policies against the overuse of cologne or perfume. Some teachers might initially push back against such policies, but think about it this way: Those guidelines are less about your personal choices and more about how they affect others. Some students and colleagues could have allergic reactions to strong odors of cologne or smoke. A teach who smells of smoke, cologne or body odor could distract students from learning.

Now move forward to the next segment, The Reasons Behind the Rules.

The Reasons Behind the Rules

Mobility and Stamina
Focus on Learning

Because building administrators have the authority to make judgment calls about teacher and staff appearance, those decisions might seem to reflect their personal opinions about what looks appropriate. To some extent those personal opinions might come into play. Usually, though, school officials don't defer to antiquated norms. They have much bigger concerns in mind: teacher and student safety, mobility and stamina, leadership, and a focus on learning.

Click on each tab in this section to explore the reasons behind the dress codes. You may begin with Safety.

You might not have thought about your clothing choices as a matter of safety, but remember that you've chosen a profession that puts you in charge of a room full of children or adolescents. While they usually mean no harm, they are awkward and make immature decisions. Often they're clumsy. As a result, some of their playful or physical behaviors might pose slight safety risks. For instance, some system policies recommend that teachers not wear bulky jewelry that could distract learners or could be easily grabbed. An innocent Ohhh, that's pretty could easily turn into a mishap. Always use caution about wearing fine jewelry. Earrings could easily fall off, and necklaces could break. Because teaching is a physical job, remember these recommendations:

Keep your hair secured away from your face.
Avoid loose clothing that could get snagged or caught.
Wear closed-toed, low-heeled shoes to avoid chances of injury.

In addition to keeping your own safety in mind, also remember you're responsible for your students' safety. You have protocols for how you should act on an urgent matter or emergency situation. Your dress and grooming decisions make you better able to handle those situations should they occur. Closed-toed, low-heeled shoes with backs enable you to move bout the classroom and help students move, especially in the event of a fire or tornado drill.

These safety concerns are especially important in secondary science classrooms where labs include glass containers, chemicals and (sometimes) open flames. The CDC's School Chemistry Laboratory Safety Guide (2006) includes an entire section on apparel in the laboratory. Safety guidelines recommend wearing closed-toed, low-heeled shoes, shirts that cover the entire torso, pants that entirely cover legs and laboratory coats and aprons. The guide also recommends the use of protective eye ware and disposable gloves. Furthermore, the guide recommends that students and teachers remove jewelry "especially dangling jewelry," and to "secure long hair and loose clothing" (p. 7). While many students enjoy wearing long synthetic fingernails, they "are made of extremely flammable polymers which can burn to completion and are not easily extinguished" (p.8). Of course, teachers will instruct their students to comply with these guidelines. At the same time, when teachers comply regularly with these guidelines, they set a good example for young scientists.

On a less risky level, your job also puts you in close proximity to ink, markers, glue and other learning materials that can be dark, smeary and messy. It's common to end a school day with a few stains, so wear clothes that you don't mind getting dirty. You might consider having a separate set of school clothes, consisting of low-cost, dark fabrics, available at many discount stores.

Please move forward to the next tab, Mobility and Stamina.

What you choose to wear can help you maintain your stamina in what can be a long and often busy teaching day. As a teacher, you’ll be on your feet most of the day, and you’ll be moving around. Again, those low-heeled, closed-toed shoes will not only keep your feet safe but also provide good support.

School buildings rarely offer teachers access to thermostats, and it’s never easy to maintain the ideal temperature for everyone. For that reason, wear layers that allow you to add or shed warmth during the school day.

Also consider the length of your attire, not just hemlines, but necklines and shirt tails. Sometimes what seems like an appropriate clothing choice actually is too revealing when a teacher must bend over or reach up. An example would be the teacher who wondered why fourth graders would never look her in the eye when she consulted with them at their desks. She later realized that her loose-fitting top, which seemed perfectly appropriate when she was standing straight, revealed more than she’d intended when she bent over to speak to her seated students.

Teaching requires you to reach the top of a white board or stoop to plug in a projector. Teachers often bend, kneel, reach and pull. So before wearing that new skirt or shirt to school, try it on in front of a mirror. Reach over your head. Bend over at the waist. Reach right and left. Notice how movement changes the amount of coverage that garment gives you. You’ll be smart to show yourself those changes before you show your entire classroom.

Now proceed to the next tab, Leadership.

In addition to helping you be a better teacher, maintaining the standard of appearance will also garner respect in your classroom. Your professional appearance shows respect for your students and school leaders. Likewise, it shows your expectation of respect from them. Preservice and first-year teachers are often only a few years older than the students you’re working with. Professional apparel and grooming will allow you to maintain a respectful but authoritative distance.

Some new teachers mistakenly want to develop rapport with their students by showing similarity with them. Those efforts, though, could present obstacles to your leadership. You’re not there to be friends with your students or to be the “cool” teacher. You can show your concern and respect for them by being mature, consistent, and sensitive to their learning needs.

Please move forward to the final tab: Focus on Learning.

Speaking of learning, professional, appropriate dress helps teachers prevent distractions from that most important classroom activity. Take the teacher mentioned earlier, whose tight-fitting dresses earned criticism from her administrator. That teacher mistakenly emphasized looking stylish and overlooked the likelihood that her clothing could distract students from learning. Clothes that are too short, too tight, too loose or low-cut can be more revealing than we realize.

What a b out Special Days?

Many teacher candidates fondly mention the learning-related dress-down days schools sometimes organize. T ake for instance Pajama Day or Dr. Seuss Read across America Day. How much should teachers dress down on those days? Teachers who participate in those events demonstrate school spirit, which administrators appreciate. Depending on the school context, an opaque set of flannel pajamas with closed-toed shoes might be a suitable costume for the day. However, stained, threadbare or ill-fitting lounge ware with bedroom slippers would pose safety risks and distractions. While teachers should participate in the spirit of a special day, it's still important that they dress for safety and modesty.

Now please proceed to the next section of this web page.

Let's Return to that Opening Photo

Keeping in mind all those reasons for dressing appropriately for the classroom, let's revisit the image from the top of this page. Has this teacher made appropriate choices for the classroom? How would she measure up against Georgia's appearance guidelines?

What's working well is that she has secured her hair behind her head. Her clothes fit--neither too loose nor too tight. These choices enable her to move about the room comfortably and safely. Her long trousers and high neck line provide sufficient coverage if she needs to stoop or stretch. If you look closely, though, you'll see she's wearing a tee shirt, which the PSC advises against. Perhaps it's a spirit day at her school--we can't tell based on this photo. On a safety note, this teacher is wearing her keys and credentials around her neck on a scarf that students could easily grab. The students in this photo are young. In a fire drill or on the playground, it's possible that a child could stumble and grab the teacher for support. That might pose risks for both.

In short, this teacher has made several appropriate choices, but one or two minor changes might make her day a little safer, a little more productive.

Examples of Teacher Attire Choices

This section displays examples of teacher apparel selections. With each image is a list of descriptors showing the teacher's appropriate choices and decisions to reconsider. Discuss these images with your classmates, colleagues, supervisors or administrators. Opinions will vary. Of course, context will guide the teacher's choice. As we noted earlier in this lesson, there are many gray areas when it comes to a teacher's attire and grooming decisions, but discussion helps everyone understand clearly the appearance expectations for a specific Georgia school.

Click on a tab in this section to reveal a different teacher appearance example.

Male teacher wearing suit with tie, hair cut short and combed, shaved face

Suit 1 by Nelson Pavlosky, 2006 CC-BY-SA 2.0

What's Working Well	Choices to Reconsider

Male sixth grade teacher with protractor by Allison Shelley for EDUimages CC-BY-NC 4.0

What's Working Well	Choices to Reconsider
	None

My Son's Teacher is a Supermodel by Woodley Wonderworks CC-BY 2011

What's Working Well	Choices to Reconsider
Modest neckline	None

male teacher with short hair, clean-shaven face, wearing sweat shirt and blue jeans

Engaging teacher in social studies by WoodleyWonderworks, CC-BY, 2012

What's Working Well	Choices to Reconsider

teacher dressed in tunic with scoop neck, short sleeves, tie at waist, leggings, sandals

Young Asian American schoolgirl walking hand in hand one teacher by Amanda Mills, Public Domain

What's Working Well	Choices to Reconsider

Teacher Images for Further Discussion

In this section are several images of classroom teachers. These images do not include explanations of appropriate and inappropriate choices. Examine the images on your own. Discuss them with classmates, colleagues, mentors and/or administrators. Discuss where your opinions agree and where they don't.

female teacher wearing v-neck blouse, denim jeans, brown boots, long hair not tied back

Preschool teacher reads to class by Allison Shelley for EDUimages CC-BY-NC 4.0

female teacher wearing above-the-knee denim skirt with opaque tights, pullover top, cardigan sweater, long hair not tied back

High school girl with teacher outside by Allison Shelley for EDUimages CC-BY-NC 4.0

male teacher wearing head band, glasses, protective mask, sweat shirt, sweat pants, athletic shoes

Male high school teacher in mask by Allison Shelley for EDUimages CC-BY-NC 4.0

male teacher with trimmed beard, shirt and tie, gray slacks

Male sixth grade teacher with textbook2 by Allison Shelley for EDUimages CC-BY-NC 4.0

Bloom, M. (2016, Sept. 14). #TeacherBae questions: Can teachers really dress like that? Atlanta journal-constitution. https://bit.ly/341BZmK.

Few, J. (2016, Jul. 13). Savannah school board rejects teacher dress code. Savannah morning news. https://bit..y/3Anuldj.

U.S. Consumer Safety Product Commission. (2006). School chemistry laboratory safety guide. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2007-107/pdfs/2007-107.pdf.

<< Previous: Standard 9: Professionalism
Next: Ethics for Georgia Educators >>
Last Updated: Aug 27, 2024 9:17 PM
URL: https://georgiasouthern.libguides.com/keystoteachingsuccess

Essay Samples
College Essay
Writing Tools
Writing guide

↑ Return to College Essay

Should Teachers Have To Wear Uniforms Or Have A Dress Code

For as long as the school system has existed, so has the rule of all attending students having to wear a standardised uniform. This is a common sight across the world from the ages of five to late teens, and though it is certainly a school tradition that seems to have largely stood the test of time, there has always been different varieties of opposition to the rule, primarily from students themselves and the parents of students who are also against the uniform nature of the rule. However, something that is much less talked about and discussed in an official capacity is the notion that teachers too should wear a uniform during the school week. This begs the question, should those in charge lead by example and wear a uniform to work, just as they are asking their students to do?

Many of the arguments for instituting a school uniform often revolved around the fact that school officials believe it will create a level playing field for all students, making them the same, regardless of class status and wealth. Whilst this seems like a sensible and common sense option in theory, the truth is that young people will always find ways to differentiate themselves from others, whether it be through hair accessories, quality of shoes or simply in the cleanliness of the uniform that they are wearing. Students might be dressed in the same clothes, but that does not necessarily make them automatically identical.

When it comes to the idea that teachers should also be required to wear a uniform of sorts whilst at school, some would argue that in their smart casual, friendly yet professional choices of shirts, ties and trousers (in most cases), they have already decided to don a specific outfit for their job. However, the difference here is that teachers have a degree of freedom in their clothing choices, whilst students are limited only to the garments that have been deemed acceptable and required by a board higher up in the chain.

Rather than developing a uniform for adult teachers to wear on a daily basis, it seems as though the most sensible and achievable option for equality between parties in the classroom is for students to be granted the same freedoms that their teacher’s enjoy, within the same limitations of the professional school environment. Just as a teacher would be chastised for wearing something inappropriate in the classroom, so should a student, but that does not mean that one should be trusted to dress appropriately whilst the other is forced to weara the same outfit for five days of the week.

The right to express oneself is an important part of the growing up process, and whilst school should always be seen as a centre of learning first and foremost, it is also an important environment of self expression for all students getting through it together. Ultimately, I feel that rather than a strict uniform system being in place, a more attractive option on all side is to develop a ‘dress code’ system similar to that of the teachers. Teachers are trusted to present themselves in a respectable manner on a daily basis, and students should also be given that privilege. Place warning systems and sanctions for the occasion when the line of acceptability is crossed, but I firmly believe that students should be treated with as much respect as teachers, and that can begin with making the daily uniform issue a level playing field. Teachers should not be wearing uniforms, but neither should the young people they are guiding.

Follow Us on Social Media

Get more free essays

Send via email

Most useful resources for students:.

Free Essays Download
Writing Tools List
Proofreading Services
Universities Rating

Contributors Bio

Find more useful services for students

Free plagiarism check, professional editing, online tutoring, free grammar check.

Do uniforms make schools better?

by: Marian Wilde | Updated: March 1, 2024

Print article

Schools, parents, and students frequently clash over the issue of regulating what students may and may not wear to school. These controversies often pegged to the culture war of the moment touch on everything from gender and sexuality to politics, race, and religion. In 2021, a group of about 50 students in Georgia protested their middle school’s dress code for being discriminatory against BIPOC girls by wearing t-shirts every Friday emblazoned with the words “sexist,” “racist,” and “classist.” In 2022, a fight between students, staff, and police officers broke out at a Pennsylvania high school when hats and hoodies were banned as part of a revision by the school board to the school’s dress code. And in 2023, two Michigan middle schoolers, via their mother, sued their school district after they were banned from wearing “Let’s Go Brandon” sweatshirts.

Are school uniforms the best solution to this contentious debate? If every student is wearing the same outfit, will a host of campus problems be solved? Researchers are divided over how much of an impact — if any — dress policies have on student learning. There are multiple studies with conflicting conclusions, plus books such as 2018’s The Debate About School Uniforms , but the argument wears on, with a list of pros and cons on each side.

Why do some public schools have uniforms?

In the 1980s, public schools were often compared unfavorably to Catholic schools. Noting the perceived benefit that uniforms conferred upon Catholic schools, some public schools decided to adopt a school uniform policy.

President Clinton provided momentum to the school uniform movement when he said in his 1996 State of the Union speech, “If it means teenagers will stop killing each other over designer jackets, then our public schools should be able to require their students to wear school uniforms.”

The pros and cons of school uniforms

According to proponents, school uniforms:.

Help prevent gangs from forming on campus 
Encourage discipline 
Help students resist peer pressure to buy trendy clothes 
Help identify intruders in the school 
Diminish economic and social barriers between students 
Increase a sense of belonging and school pride 
Improve attendance

Opponents contend that school uniforms:

Violate a student’s right to freedom of expression 
Are simply a Band-Aid on the issue of school violence 
Make students a target for bullies from other schools 
Are a financial burden for poor families 
Are an unfair additional expense for parents who pay taxes for a free public education 
Are difficult to enforce in public schools

Uniforms vs. dress codes

Schools and districts vary widely in how closely they adhere to the concept of uniformity.

What’s a dress code?

Generally, dress codes are more relaxed than uniform policies. Sometimes, however, dress codes are quite strict with requirements that are potentially viewed as biased based on race or gender. In 2020, two Black male students in Texas, cousins with West Indian heritage, were suspended for wearing dreadlocks in supposed violation of the district’s hair and grooming policy, part of the dress code. The elder one, a senior, was told he couldn’t attend prom or graduation until his dreads were trimmed. In 2022, girls on the track team at an Albany, NY high school were sent home for wearing sports bras at practice.

Uniforms are certainly easier for administrators to enforce than dress codes, largely because the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) can be depended upon to protect a student’s “right to express themselves.” The ACLU believes dress codes are often used to, “shame girls, force students to conform to gender stereotypes… punish students who wear political and countercultural messages. Such policies can be used as cover for racial discrimination… Dress codes can also infringe on a student’s religious rights…” To successfully enforce a dress code, insists the ACLU, the school must prove the student’s attire, “is disruptive to school activities.”

The ACLU’s dress code stance is regularly supported by federal courts , like the 2023 lower court ruling in North Carolina that ended a charter school decree that girls couldn’t wear pants to school. ACLU lawyers claimed this violated Title IX because the dress code “discriminated against female students by limiting their ability to fully participate in school activities, such as using the playground.” The U.S. Supreme Court later declined to take up a case challenging the lower court’s ruling.

Check with your school to see what the dress code is, as they can be fairly specific. In Tulsa, Oklahoma, for example, the dress code prohibits :

Symbols, mottoes, words or acronyms that convey crude, vulgar, profane, violent, death-oriented, gang-related, sexually explicit, or sexually suggestive messages.
Symbols, mottoes, words or acronyms advertising tobacco, alcohol, or illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia.
Symbols, mottoes, words or acronyms identifying a student as a member of a secret or overtly antisocial group or gang or that identifies a student as a member of an organization that professes violence or hatred toward one’s fellow man.
Visible and permanent tattoos/brands incompatible with the standards set forth herein shall be covered to prohibit their display.
Excessively large or baggy clothes

What’s a uniform?

School uniforms worldwide can widely range from nondescript to bizarre. (Extreme examples from China, Australia, and the UK on this YouTube video ) Most public school outfits in the USA are quite casual, with a “ common type ” for boys often a polo shirt in a solid color, with pants in khaki, black, or navy blue. A girl’s uniform is often a skirt and a white buttoned-up shirt. Dress shoes are frequently required for both genders.

In the United States, low-income families spend an average of $249 on a child’s school uniform annually, far less than the typical Australian student’s $578. But still, the cost is sometimes viewed as unfair because public education is intended to be free, paid by tax dollars, not “a stress for families on lower incomes.” The ACLU believes that public schools should provide free school uniforms , because the expense is unconstitutional, and it increases wealth inequity.

What research says about school uniforms

In 2006, Virginia Draa, professor at Youngstown State University, reviewed the impact of school uniforms at 64 public high schools that had larger percentages of economically disadvantaged and minority students than other urban schools. Her conclusion surprised her: “I really went into this thinking uniforms don’t make a difference, but I came away seeing that they do… I was absolutely floored.” Her analysis determined that the schools with uniforms improved their students attendance, and graduation rates rose an average almost 11 percent.

In 2022, Ohio State University and University of Pennsylvania researchers reached a contrary opinion in their report titled “ School Uniforms and Students Behavior: Is There a Link? ” Their view was that, in general, evidence that school uniforms improve social skills in the students was “inconclusive.” The solitary praise they provided to uniform-wearing was noting there was “some indication that low-income students in schools that required uniforms demonstrated better school attendance than low-income students in schools that did not.”

What to believe? Jury is still out.

What do students think about uniforms?

A student discussion: pros and cons of uniforms

Editor’s note: This video is part of our high school milestones series about communication skills. The students in this video discuss the pros and cons of school uniforms.

A University of Nevada, Reno, survey of 1,848 middle school students, published in 2022, revealed that 90 percent did not like wearing a uniform to school . Only 30 percent believed the uniforms “might reduce discipline issues, a mere 17 percent thought the uniform helped them focus at school, 34 percent believed their school was safer due to the uniforms and 37 percent said, “I worry less about my appearance” due to the uniform requirement.”

An earlier study, also in Nevada, displayed similar unpopularity with newly instituted uniforms among middle school students. However, when the researchers looked into school discipline and local police records and compared them to the prior year’s data, discipline referrals were down 10 percent, there were 63 percent fewer police log reports, and incidences of graffiti, fights, and gang-related activity were all down.

It’s a big issue

A new trend is the mounting pressure to establish dress codes for teachers. Apparently, the same casual mindset toward revealing outfits is cropping up in the ranks of our teachers.

The debate over uniforms in public schools encompasses many larger issues than simply what children should wear to school. It touches on issues of school improvement, freedom of expression, and hot-button culture wars. It’s no wonder the debate rages on.

Homes Nearby

Homes for rent and sale near schools

Why your neighborhood school closes for good – and what to do when it does

5 things for Black families to consider when choosing a school

6 surprising things insiders look for when assessing a high school

Surprising things about high school

Yes! Sign me up for updates relevant to my child's grade.

Please enter a valid email address

Thank you for signing up!

Server Issue: Please try again later. Sorry for the inconvenience

4 Things Public Schools Can and Can’t Do When It Comes to Dress Codes

Most students have encountered school dress codes in one form or another - from bans on spaghetti straps or crop tops, to restrictions on certain hair styles, hair length, and head coverings. Despite how common they are, school dress codes and grooming policies often reflect and reinforce outdated and sexist stereotypes, and may be disproportionately enforced against students who are more likely to be policed or perceived as deviant by school officials.

School dress codes, for example, may reflect the sexist and harmful view that girls’ bodies are inherently vulgar or inappropriate , that boys will be “distracted” by girls’ bodies, and that girls’ dress and appearance require more regulation than that of boys. Such policies also may punish LGBTQ+ students for not conforming with rigid and binary gender norms about proper behavior and appearance. Moreover, students of color - and especially Black girls and other girls of color - are disproportionately targeted for dress code enforcement because of intersecting race and gender stereotypes. Black girls, in particular, are often seen as less innocent and more adult-like, aggressive and threatening, and needing less support and protection - often known as the “adultification bias.”

You may be left wondering where the line is between a permissible dress code and unlawful discrimination. Here’s the short answer: While public schools are allowed to have dress codes and uniform policies, they cannot discriminate against certain students or censor student expression.

Here are a few of the basics on what public schools can and cannot do when it comes to dress codes:

Dress codes can’t be explicitly discriminatory.

That means that while dress codes may specify types of attire that are acceptable, these requirements may not differ based on students’ gender, race, religion, or other protected characteristics. Under federal laws protecting against discrimination in education - including Title IX , Title VI , and the U.S. Constitution’s equal protection guarantee, public schools cannot enforce a dress code based on gender- or race-based stereotypes about appropriate dress or appearance. For example, a public school cannot require girls, and only girls, to wear skirts or dresse s, or require boys, but not girls, to wear short hair . This also goes for special events and occassions - such as prom , graduation , or yearbook photos . For example, while a public school can require “formal attire” to be worn at special events, it may not require that girls, and only girls, wear gowns - or that boys, and only boys, wear a suit.

A dress code related graphic that reads "Be Yourself."

Schools cannot enforce dress codes in ways that discriminate against people for who they are. Students, your body is a not a problem. Know your rights.

All students, whether transgender or cisgender, must be allowed to wear clothing consistent with their gender identity and expression.

This is because the clothing, accessories, and hairstyles we wear are part of how we express our identity, and because schools cannot force students to conform their appearance or behavior based on rigid and discriminatory gender norms and stereotypes. For example, a public school may not enforce a dress and grooming policy that prohibits boys, and only boys, from wearing nail polish , or imposes rigid restrictions on hair length based on gender . Such dress codes marginalize non-binary, transgender, and gender-nonconforming students, and ultimately send the message that these students do not belong.

Dress codes that are unevenly enforced against particular groups of students may violate laws prohibiting discrimination.

Even when a dress code appears to be “neutral” on its face, a public school may violate students’ civil rights by targeting enforcement of its dress code against certain groups of students. For example, public school dress codes that ban “cleavage” or “bra straps” - or impose restrictions on the length of shorts or skirts - are often targeted against girls and invites unnecessary and excessive policing of girls’ bodies in schools . The ACLU has expressed concerns about potential discrimination where a school targeted dress code sweeps against girl students , and where a school district suspended girl athletes for practicing in sports bras, while allowing boy athletes to practice without shirts .

Moreover, Black students and other students of color are often more harshly disciplined and targeted for dress code enforcement based on racist stereotypes about proper appearance and behavior. Notably, dress and grooming policies that prohibit certain hairstyles - including hair extensions, braids, or locs - often disproportionately punish Black students and are rooted in racist standards of professionalism and respectability. In 2018, the ACLU and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund raised legal concerns when a Florida school turned away a Black first grader for wearing locs on his first day of school. However, it is worth noting that courts have been less consistent about applying antidiscrimination laws to grooming policies, and your protections may vary greatly based on where you live.

Restrictions on head coverings and certain hairstyles also raise significant concerns regarding religious and racial discrimination. Students from some religious backgrounds may wear head coverings or longer hairstyles due to religious reasons, and public schools may not impose restrictions that conflict with students’ religious freedom.

Schools can’t discriminate based on the viewpoint expressed by your clothing.

The Supreme Court has recognized that public school students do not “shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate.” The First Amendment prohibits schools from picking and choosing which views students are allowed to express. All views must be treated equally, so long as they are not obscene or disruptive. This means that if a school permits items like t-shirts with slogans, buttons, or wristbands , it has to permit them no matter what message they express .

What this boils down to is that public schools’ authority to impose dress codes is not unlimited. Students should be informed of their rights so they can speak out if there are violations. And school administrators must reexamine their dress codes to ensure that they do not violate students’ civil rights and liberties.

Does your school have a dress code that treats people differently based on gender, race, or other protected characteristics? Let us know by filling out this form .

Dress and Grooming Policies Based on Gender Stereotypes

Does your school or workplace have dress and grooming policies that treat people differently based on gender stereotypes? Share your story with us.

Source: American Civil Liberties Union

Click here for a handy fact sheet outlining your rights related to school dress codes and grooming policies, gender identity, and self-expression. Share this and our latest podcast episode with a friend!

Learn More About the Issues on This Page

Women's Rights
Women's Rights in Education

Civil Rights Groups Tell Federal Appeals Court that Protections for Pregnant Workers Cover Abortion Care

How Sue Bird Is Supercharging Women's Sports

ACLU Condemns House Measure Against Department of Education Title IX Rule

Senate Armed Services Committee Advances Restrictions on Medical Care for Transgender Servicemembers

Science & Math
Sociology & Philosophy
Law & Politics

Essay: Pros and Cons of a Dress Code in Schools

Essay: Pros and Cons of…

Students mill through school grounds, all dressed in the latest fashions and trends. Although they may not think twice about their clothing, other than how fashionable they are, there is another factor that affects their dress for school, dress codes. Dress codes in North America have come under fire in recent years, amid arguments that raise many possible issues concerning them.

School dress codes have become a large controversy, as 55% of American schools enforce dress codes that are deemed “strict” and “controlling”. Though it is argued that times and our ideals have become more modern and progressive, our dress code policies have certainly not.

For generations, society’s mindset has improved drastically, beginning to wholly support women, people of colour, different shapes, sizes, and everyone in between. However, dress codes at their core have not changed with present times, though they are, on the surface, seen as appropriate, well-meaning, and inclusive.

Dress codes have been shown to cause increases in students grades and school performance averages. Although this is positive for students and schools, there is a cost behind this for parents and guardians. These policies make it much more difficult for both students and parents to buy clothing that children would actually wear, as dress codes are often specific and prohibit most clothing that students are willing to don.

However, the opposite is true as well. Dress code policies are open to interpretation and the final say comes down to school staff and administrators, meaning that students can never be truly sure that they will not be dress coded. On that same note, most clothing that students want to wear clothing that is fashionable would be considered unprofessional anyways. The use of dress codes prepares students for reality and what is expected of them as they age into society.

However, these expectations are not always what needs to be instilled in the mindsets of students, as society can be misogynistic and male-centric, and school clothing policies only perpetuate these beliefs. Dress codes circuitously support sexism, misogyny, and sexual assault directed towards females. School attire policies aid in the preparation of students for future professions. They help ensure that students have experienced clothing restrictions and are knowledgeable on acting according to these policies in any institutions.

However, these same rules that are crafted to help some students often end up discriminating against others. Many dress code policies are guilty of indirectly prohibiting clothing and dress that are symbolic to/are common in certain religions or cultures, thus enraging these groups and straying far away from the intended purpose. Are the benefits of these policies worth more than the costs? Or does the expense on students everywhere outweigh the advantages?

Dress codes are policies enforced in schools in order to prohibit certain clothing items that are deemed inappropriate or offensive. Their intended goal is to keep all students and staff comfortable, and to maintain a positive school climate.

In the 1950’s to 1960’s, positive economic conditions caused a drastic increase in household average income. With this excess income, everyday citizens were beginning to purchase and wear more fashionable clothing, articulating their culture, beliefs, and interests. However, the government was not fond of this new method of self-expression, and eventually began to ban many clothing items.

In the United States of America, dress codes were first established in 1969, in the Tinker v. Des Moines Community School District. A group of high school students had worn black armbands to class, protesting the Vietnam War. This sparked controversy, and became the limit for the community school board. Rules prohibiting certain clothing items were inputted in schools from then on.

More and more schools across the nation and across the world began developing their own clothing bans, which are now collectively referred to as dress codes. Presently, the prohibitions on clothing are not very well received, and students are fighting for more freedom concerning their dress as codes become increasingly specific. However, dress codes do have a number of advantages for not only the school, but the students as well.

Dress codes improve student’s school experience. Studies have shown that students who stress over their appearance are apt to perform worse on cognitive tasks, compared to those that show little to no concern. Attire policies have been shown to increase student’s grades on examinations.

In fact, 46% of TDSB schools state that the purpose of their dress codes is to “support a positive learning environment”. If a student obsesses over their fashion, hair, makeup, and looks, they spend less focus on their academics, clubs, and overall education. With the aid of dress codes, students cease any worry about their looks, as many items cannot be worn anyways.

Students are often bullied because of their clothing, and dress codes help prevent this by limiting the attire that is available for them to wear. Children of lower-income families may not be able to afford popular brands and expensive clothing, which is the main reason why so many students, especially teenagers, are bullied at school. With dress codes banning many items such as ripped jeans and baggy clothes, which are popular styles with name brands everywhere, there are fewer chances for bullying due to attire.

Mental health disorders in students such as depression, low self-esteem, and eating disorders are often accelerated by worries over clothing and appearances. Schools enforcing dress codes can improve the school climate. By restricting certain clothing items, students do not feel the need to don showy or revealing attire to belong, as these pieces are prohibited by dress codes.

It would help prevent students from feeling insecure about their bodies and clothing because they wouldn’t be the only ones not dressed in the latest styles and trends. Mental health issues are common in teenagers, meaning that a great deal should be done to prevent them, which includes dress codes.

The policies that dress codes contain make experiences difficult for parents of schoolchildren, and well as students themselves. The rules are impossibly specific. “Skirts and shorts must be no shorter than 2 inches above the knee” is an incredibly precise policy that is completely unrealistic to measure. Most students don’t have the time to take a ruler to their shorts every morning. It is also inefficient and opens up a multitude of possibilities for students to be punished, which isn’t the aim of dress codes, supposedly.

Parents bear difficulties purchasing clothing for their children, and attire policies cause even more frustration for them. With dress code rules, parents cannot purchase merely any clothing for their children. They also must keep the dress codes in mind and speculate if it follows the policies or not.

In a study of children’s apparel choices, 41% of girls’ clothing in stores marketed towards “tweens”, such as Abercrombie & Fitch Kids, were considered sexual. The more specific the policies, the more irritating and difficult to follow they are for parents. This is time consuming for those who have errands to run, work to do, and a life to live.

The policies have many issues and inconsistencies that make it difficult for students to be positive that they are following the dress code. For example, “the final say in whether a student’s outfit is violating the dress code is subjective”, which is stated by 50% of U.S. schools.

For example, McLouth High School in Kansas, U.S.A. states “shorts and skirts must be as long, or longer than, the longest fingertip. Shorts and skirts that pass this test may still be deemed inappropriate. ” Policies like this make it virtually impossible for students to be completely sureif they are following the dress code, as the end ruling is a teacher or administrators’ opinion. No data or measurements, just a statement that worries students everywhere.

Dress codes are made to keep a professional environment and keep students clean and orderly. Students feel more comfortable in an appropriate environment. If a student was to wear revealing clothing to school, it could make others feel uncomfortable and unhappy. Dress codes prevent the discomfort of students and teachers. Without them, schools would run rampant with clothing enforcing offensive messages, exposing attire, and student displeasure.

Dress codes have the possibility of aiding a positive school reputation. By enforcing dress codes, schools limit the possibly offensive messages that could be delivered by students’ clothing. Schools could be known for having respectful students if they limit the negative messages spread by their pupils, through clothing, actions, or otherwise. Image is what is first seen of the students, and therefore the school, so it is important for the students to possess a clean image.

It is essentially “dressing for success”. Dressing well has the ability to positively affect the morals, attitudes, and work quality of students. Professional dress can lead to confidence. Individuals that are better dressed will often stand taller and project independence. A recent study has revealed that the participants dressed professionally were more likely to think outside of the box and produce creative ideas compared to their poorly dressed colleagues. By schools teaching students how important this is, they position them well for success.

Though dress codes are meant to keep a professional environment, their rules promote sexism and misogyny, even going so far as to encourage rape. Clothing articles that are targeted towards females are often put through dress code policies constantly, much more so than those targeted towards males. 57% of dress code attire bans are towards clothing items marketed to females, such as skirts, leggings, and crop tops, compared to a mere 5% for boys(and 38% to all genders). This only instills the belief that females should be more controlled and have more rules in life than males.

Dress codes and the phrases told to girls to justify the policies often include vocabulary that is demoralizing and blames girls for their actions. The most common words used for dress code policy explanations include “disrupt”, “distract”, “appropriate”, “safe”, “health”, “modest”, and “respect”. Of these words, 76% of dress code policies include the phrase “disrupt” or “distract”, making these two the most common words used to validate the rules.

Often times, they’re used for the 57% of banned clothing marketed towards girls. The use of this vocabulary makes it seem as though a girl should be ashamed of her body, and that female bodies are merely items for males to view and be distracted by. It is unacceptable for these masked discriminations and double standards to slip through the cracks of what is seen as a strong and fair system.

Revealing clothing is frequently banned in school dress codes, however in doing so, it often ends up sexualizing young children, especially girls. Many young girls have their first experience of being shamed for their clothing through school dress codes and at very young ages. It is not appropriate or legal at all for 10 year old girls having to change out of shorts or tank tops because they could be “distracting” to male classmates or, worse, male teachers that are much older than them.

Sexualizing young girls and conditioning others and themselves to believe that they need to change to fit societal views is what guilts women who are victims of sexual harassment and assault, though they should never be held accountable for something of that matter.

Dress codes prepare students for the real world. Many workplaces have dress codes, and having them at schools as well helps students practice this. It teaches students to consider their dress choices in a practical, real sense. Fashion is something that many teenagers are absorbed with, however often in a more shallow sense.

By teaching the need to think broader than just how stylish their clothes are, schools instill this mindset of making pragmatic choices in their students. Schools must always aim to act as a good model for reality, which ensures the future success of their students.

There are often punishments for failure to follow the rules in workplaces. This certainly includes dress codes. For example, if an employee wears ripped jeans to a business-casual office job, they will be “dress coded” by their manager. Further failure to obey rules may even lead to their dismissal.

This is precisely how school dress codes work as well. Failing to follow the dress code would lead to the student being “dress coded” by a teacher or administrator and the punishment could eventually lead up to suspension or expulsion from school. Showing students that there are actual consequences for their decisions teaches them the importance of diligently obeying the rules.

It helps students practice professionalism and how to dress well. How students dress is most other’s first impression, and cleanly dressed individuals give a good impression. It proposes the idea that they are professional and intelligent, while dressing carelessly makes students seem just that- careless.

Clothing with holes and tears, as well as clothing that exposes the midriff are often seen as lazy and unprofessional by employers. By inputting bans on these articles, schools are actively preparing students for a future position in which there is a dress code to be followed.

In their journey to ensure the comfort of everyone at the school, dress codes are often discriminatory and downright offensive to certain groups. African-American students are more likely to be dress coded than any other racial group, especially caucasian peers. Many schools in North America have rules which prohibit natural African-American hair, which is inappropriate and discriminatory towards their culture.

However, there are no rules against any other ethnicity of hair. Studies have shown that girls of colour are much more likely to have their outfits deemed “provocative” and “unladylike” compared to caucasian peers, even when both groups are violating the dress code.

Dress codes often discriminate against people of larger body proportions. Kelsey Anderson, a Missouri teen, wore a long sleeved blouse and long jeans to school one day. She was dress coded. The teacher that dealt with the punishment stated that the reason the teen was dress coded was that “plus size women need to dress accordingly” and that “bustier women need to wear clothing that covers their cleavage”. In other words, she was specifically harassed because she was not considered thin.

Reports show that curvy and busty girls are more likely to be policed for their outfits than thinner and less busty classmates. This blatantly reveals the discrimination towards larger women, and how much harder it is for plus sized women to dress while still obeying the objectivity of dress codes. Many religious practices are disregarded from school dress codes. Muslim women are often penalized for wearing hijabs, which is an important aspect of their beliefs.

Unfortunately, this discrimination follows them outside of the classroom. It affects them in school athletic events as well. Noor Abukuram is an Ohio high schooler, who, in October of 2019, was disqualified from a cross country event in her region. She was sporting a hijab, and though it was formulated especially for athletes, she was eliminated from the event for violating the dress code, after finishing the race. This showcases dress code discrimination against religious wear, despite the fact that it is not offensive or harmful to anyone.

As the bell rings, signifying the start of class, students begin separating from their groups and entering various classrooms. It may seem like an average day, but some students will be dress coded. Some students will have to face embarrassment or suspensions because of it. And a select few may revolt and cause changes in the school dress policies for schools across their board.

Though dress codes have the potential to improve the school climate and student’s school experiences, they often fail to meet these goals. Dress codes place a controlling finger on the student body and causes student frustration. They become fearful of what may happen to them even if they are attempting to follow school dress codes, as failure to follow dress codes can lead to embarrassment at best and expulsion at worst.

This makes their school preparations difficult and more worrisome than they need to be. Dress codes do have a positive aim, which is to keep a professional school climate. Professionalism is important, however, though many schools house professional students, they are also raising ones with sexist mindsets. Dress codes prepare students for reality and their futures. Often, workplaces will have professional dress codes.

Consequences for refusing to follow these policies can even lead to being dismissed from a position. Schools having these same rules ensures that students are aware of the severity of the punishments and how important it is to follow the rules. These same rules that can prepare students so well for reality and their own futures are also largely detrimental to certain groups of students, like students of colour, plus sized students, and religious students.

Dress codes have a variety of pros and cons and it is still controversial on whether the pros outweigh the cons or vice versa. However, reality is that dress codes may not be entirely abolished for some time, and that is something that may have to be dealt with on both sides.

Works Cited

Almasy, Steve, and Natalie Johnson. “Texas Parents Sue School Officials They Say Used Sharpie to Cover Son’s New Haircut.” CNN , Cable News Network, 21 Aug. 2019, 17 Feb. 2020, www.cnn.com/2019/08/20/us/texas-haircut-sharpie-lawsuit/index.html.

Green, Dennis. “It turns out that dressing well can actually make you more successful.” Business Insider, Business Insider, 5 Aug. 2017, 21 Feb. 2020,https://www.businessinsider.com/dressing-for-success-actually-works-2017-7

Heller, Susanna. “A Teen Was Reportedly Told She Violated Her High School’s Dress Code by Being ‘Busty’ – Now She’s Seeking Legal Action.” Insider , Insider, 13 Sept. 2017, 17 Feb. 2020, www.insider.com/teen-called-busty-plus-size-dress-code2017-9.

“Muslim Teen Athlete Disqualified in Ohio Race over Hijab.” BBC News , BBC, 25 Oct. 2019, 17 Feb. 2020, www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-50186728.

Showalter, Sandi Kelly. “The Importance of Dressing Professionally.” Career Trend, Career

Trend, 3 Sept. 2019, 21 Feb. 2020, https://careertrend.com/facts-5136548-importance-dressing-professionally.html

“The Sexualized Messages Dress Codes Are Sending to Students.” The Pudding , n.d, 17 Feb.

2020, www.pudding.cool/2019/02/dress-code-sexualization/.

Essay: The Drawbacks of Single Gender Schools
Methods of Data Collection in Psychology: Pros & Cons
Dualism Arguments: Pros & Cons
Should College Athletes be Paid: Pros & Cons
Pros and Cons of Hydro electric & Wind energy

I really love the wording and points that you made!

Essay on Dress Code

Students are often asked to write an essay on Dress Code in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Dress Code

What is a dress code.

A dress code is a set of rules about what you can wear. Schools, offices, and clubs often have dress codes. They help people look neat and proper for different places. For example, your school might ask you to wear certain colors or types of clothes.

Why Dress Codes Matter

Dress codes are important because they create a sense of unity. When everyone wears similar clothes, it can make people feel like they belong to a group. In jobs, it helps customers know who to ask for help.

Pros and Cons

Having a dress code means everyone knows what to wear without thinking too much. But, some people feel dress codes limit their freedom to express themselves through their clothes.

Dress Code Tips

When you follow a dress code, make sure your clothes are clean and fit well. If you’re not sure what to wear, ask a teacher or a friend. Always try to look your best within the rules.

250 Words Essay on Dress Code

Types of dress codes.

There are many types of dress codes. For example, in school, you might have to wear a uniform. This is a special set of clothes that all students wear. At a party, there might be a fancy dress code, which means you need to wear your best clothes. In offices, the dress code is often formal, which means suits for men and dresses or suits for women.

Dress codes are important because they help people know what is okay to wear. They can make sure that no one’s clothes cause a problem or distract others. In school, a dress code can help students focus on learning instead of what everyone is wearing.

Dress codes have good and bad sides. A good side is that they can make everyone feel equal. A bad side is that sometimes people feel they can’t express themselves with their clothes. It’s important to find a balance so that people can feel comfortable and still follow the rules.

Dress codes are about wearing the right clothes for the right place. They help keep things fair and respectful. It’s good to follow the dress code, but it’s also important to feel good in what you wear.

500 Words Essay on Dress Code

A dress code is a set of rules about what clothes people can wear. Schools, offices, and different events often have dress codes to make sure everyone looks proper and respects the place or event they are at. For example, your school might ask you to wear certain colors or types of clothes so that all students look alike and no one feels left out because of what they wear.

Why Do We Have Dress Codes?

There are many kinds of dress codes. Some are very strict, like a uniform that all students must wear. Others are more relaxed, just asking people to wear smart clothes or avoid certain items like flip-flops or hats. At formal events, you might have to wear a suit or a dress. Each dress code is made to fit the place or event it is for.

Pros of Dress Codes

There are good things about having a dress code. It can make choosing what to wear easier because you know what is expected. It can also make everyone feel like they belong to a group, like their school or company. Dress codes can also teach us about respect and how to dress appropriately for different situations.

Cons of Dress Codes

Following dress codes.

When there is a dress code, it’s important to follow it. If you’re not sure what you can or can’t wear, it’s a good idea to ask a teacher or someone in charge. They can explain the rules to you. Remember, dress codes are not there to make life hard but to make sure everyone is dressed right for the place or event.

Dress codes are all around us and they play a big role in how we dress for different places and events. They have good points, like making everyone feel equal and looking proper, but they can also have downsides if people feel they can’t be themselves. It’s important to understand why dress codes exist and to follow them while also thinking about how they affect everyone. Whether you’re going to school, work, or a special event, knowing about the dress code can help you fit in and feel comfortable.

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

School Dress Code Debates, Explained

Are school dress codes a tool for student safety or a restriction on their self-identity? The question has been debated for years.

But more recently, dress codes have come up as an equity issue after reports that Black students, girls, and LGBTQ students across the country are disproportionately affected by school dress codes. Some districts have imposed harsh punishments on those groups of students, including in- or out-of-school suspensions, for violations of dress codes. And a federal Government Accountability Office report recently concluded there’s a lack of model policies to help school districts set dress codes that are fair to everyone.

Composite of 3 individuals, two looking at the camera and from behind playing the piano.

Here are answers to some common questions about dress codes.

Education Issues, Explained

Assembly member Lori Wilson, Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus, attends a meeting of the California legislature on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024, in Sacramento, Calif.

Sign Up & Sign In

IMAGES

School Uniform and Teacher Dress Code: [Essay Example], 1112 words
SOLUTION: Dress code for teachers success
Dress Code For Teachers
Dress Code For Teachers In Public Schools Free Essay Example
CSB Dress Code Essay Free Essay Example
10 Lines On My Favourite Dress

VIDEO

essay dress #shortsfeed #drawing #painting
When Teachers Dress Up As Students!
IELTS Writing Task 2: Agree or Disagree Essay -'Dress code'
These Teacher Dress Codes Are Ridiculous! (Part 2)

COMMENTS

Dress Code For Teacher's Success
Dress Code For Teacher's Success. This essay sample was donated by a student to help the academic community. Papers provided by EduBirdie writers usually outdo students' samples. "What a teacher is, is more important than what he teaches" (Menninger). In many everyday situations a person is judge upon how they present themselves.
The Benefits of Implementing Dress Codes in Educational Institutions
Essay Example: Introduction Dress codes in schools have been debated for ages by teachers, parents, and students. Some folks think dress codes limit personal expression, but there's plenty of evidence showing they have lots of benefits. This essay will look at the good things dress codes can
Dress Code For Teachers In Public Schools Free Essay Example
875. This essay sample essay on Dress Code For Teachers In Public Schools offers an extensive list of facts and arguments related to it. The essay's introduction, body paragraphs and the conclusion are provided below. The currently imposed dress code standard by some states for their elementary and high school teachers is one of the issues ...
Essay Sample: Dress Code For Teacher's Success
This essay delves into the importance of a dress code for teachers and its implications on their professional success. Body: Professionalism and Credibility: A teacher's attire is a visual representation of their professionalism. A well-thought-out dress code enhances a teacher's credibility and authority in the eyes of both students and ...
Are Dress Codes for Educators Simply Out of Fashion?
In 2008, a teachers' union in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, expressed concerns to the school board over inequitable variances in dress code across the district: One school's principal allowed educators to wear capri pants and blue jeans, another prohibited the same items, while yet another required an educator's shoes to match their outfit.The Jefferson Federation of Teachers deemed this ...
What Does It Mean for Teachers to Dress 'Professionally'?
Ligia "Gigi" Vasquez , a bilingual educator: "We, as teachers, are supposed to be professionals in all aspects, including dressing for working. It's a pity we should be regulated in that ...
How Should Teachers Dress for the Classroom?
For many teachers, the outfit should match the instructional role. A gym teacher in a suit and tie, or a business teacher in sweatpants and a t-shirt, just won't fit the bill. "I've said for years that preschool teachers and kindergarten teachers should be allowed to wear scrubs to work." - Mindi H. "I teach theatre.
Is It Time to Relax Teacher Dress Codes?
Times changed and, with them, teacher dress codes. But flare-ups over what teachers wear to work have continued and while many schools and districts have relaxed dress codes for staff, some ...
The Effect of Teachers' Dress on Students' Attitude and Students
3. Teachers' Dress and Students' Attitude. The well-dressed professors/teachers are considered to be more organized, knowledgeable, and better prepared, whereas professors/teachers who wore informal clothing were seen as friendlier, flexible, sympathetic, fair, and enthusiastic by the judgment of the students [].It is also considerable that the teacher-expressive characteristics like ...
School Uniform and Teacher Dress Code
A teacher who wears a laid back outfit could affect the student's full potential of being a hard worker. Although a teacher dress code could aid with that problem, there is no need for that to happen due to the fact that teachers already dress in a professional manner. A professional outfit worn by the teacher instills the authority of teachers.
KEYS to Teaching Success: Professional Appearance for Educators
Teachers who must redirect students out of dress code have greater credibility if they themselves exhibit appropriate appearance. ... Savannah school board rejects teacher dress code. Savannah morning news. https://bit..y/3Anuldj. U.S. Consumer Safety Product Commission. (2006). School chemistry laboratory safety guide. Centers for Disease ...
Should Teachers Have To Wear Uniforms Or Have A Dress Code
Ultimately, I feel that rather than a strict uniform system being in place, a more attractive option on all side is to develop a 'dress code' system similar to that of the teachers. Teachers are trusted to present themselves in a respectable manner on a daily basis, and students should also be given that privilege. Place warning systems and ...
School uniform debate: Pros & cons with the latest findings
A new trend is the mounting pressure to establish dress codes for teachers. Apparently, the same casual mindset toward revealing outfits is cropping up in the ranks of our teachers. The debate over uniforms in public schools encompasses many larger issues than simply what children should wear to school. It touches on issues of school ...
4 Things Public Schools Can and Can't Do When It Comes to Dress Codes
Even when a dress code appears to be "neutral" on its face, a public school may violate students' civil rights by targeting enforcement of its dress code against certain groups of students. For example, public school dress codes that ban "cleavage" or "bra straps" - or impose restrictions on the length of shorts or skirts - are ...
Essay: Pros and Cons of a Dress Code in Schools
Dress codes are made to keep a professional environment and keep students clean and orderly. Students feel more comfortable in an appropriate environment. If a student was to wear revealing clothing to school, it could make others feel uncomfortable and unhappy. Dress codes prevent the discomfort of students and teachers.
IELTS Band 9 essay, topic: Should teachers be required to conform to a
by Simone Braverman. This is a model response to a Writing Task 2 topic from High Scorer's Choice IELTS Practice Tests book series (reprinted with permission). This answer is likely to score IELTS Band 9. Set 1 General Training book, Practice Test 3. Writing Task 2. You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:
Response: 'If They're Learning, I Don't Care What They're Wearing'
Schools should check their biases and aim for a feminist-friendly version of any dress code that doesn't shame girls. Problems are caused when the adults are policing girls in ways they aren't ...
Essay on Dress Code
A dress code is a set of rules about what clothes people can wear. Schools, offices, and different events often have dress codes to make sure everyone looks proper and respects the place or event they are at. For example, your school might ask you to wear certain colors or types of clothes so that all students look alike and no one feels left ...
How Should Teachers Dress for the Classroom?
For many teachers, the outfit should match the instructional role. A gym teacher in a suit and tie, or a business teacher in sweatpants and a t-shirt, just won't fit the bill. "I've said for ...
Essay On School Dress Code
Lee Rowland, "School dress codes are saying that the self-identity that you want to express through your clothes doesn 't belong here." (Rowland 1). Having a dress code sends a negative message that a person self-identity doesn 't matter and all that matters is focusing on their education. While that is the ultimate goal, to be successful ...
School Dress Code Essay
Free Essay: Reinforcing The School's Dress code Elgin High School should make the rules equal to both genders because teachers have been more strict on... Essay; Topics; Writing; ... female teachers use them too. If teachers would real want to re enforce dress code, they should set an example for us. And the consequences they give students ...
School Dress Code Debates, Explained
School Dress Code Debates, Explained. By Eesha Pendharkar — December 27, 2022 1 min read. In this 2018 photo, students socialize at Grant High School in Portland, Ore., after school let out ...
Should Teachers Wear Uniforms Essay
In this essay I´m gong talk about an idea that can be controversial, the idea is "Should teachers have to wear uniforms or dress code?". First of all a uniform is the clothes worn by students primarily for a school or otherwise educational institution, in this definition they make emphasis that is only for students, but here in Mexico in some schools the teachers can use uniforms but not ...

Dress Code For Teacher's Success

Cite this paper

Related articles

Most popular essays

Join our 150k of happy users

The Benefits of Implementing Dress Codes in Educational Institutions

Introduction

Promoting a Conducive Learning Environment

Reducing Socio-Economic Disparities

Fostering a Sense of Community and Professionalism

Cite this page

Don't let plagiarism ruin your grade

Dress Code For Teachers In Public Schools

Why Should Teachers Dress Professionally

Cite this page

Are Dress Codes for Educators Simply Out of Fashion?

A BONE OF CONTENTION

WHAT DOES A PROFESSIONAL LOOK LIKE?

A WAY FORWARD

School Uniform and Teacher Dress Code

Cite this Essay

Related Essays

Still can’t find what you need?

Related Essays on School Uniform

Related Topics

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

KEYS to Teaching Success: Professional Appearance for Educators

Dress for the Job You Hope to Have

Appearance Guidelines

The Reasons Behind the Rules

Let's Return to that Opening Photo

Examples of Teacher Attire Choices

Teacher Images for Further Discussion

Should Teachers Have To Wear Uniforms Or Have A Dress Code

Follow Us on Social Media

Get more free essays

Send via email

Contributors Bio

Find more useful services for students

Do uniforms make schools better?

Why do some public schools have uniforms?

The pros and cons of school uniforms

Opponents contend that school uniforms:

Uniforms vs. dress codes

What’s a dress code?

What’s a uniform?

What research says about school uniforms

What do students think about uniforms?

It’s a big issue

Homes Nearby

6 surprising things insiders look for when assessing a high school

4 Things Public Schools Can and Can’t Do When It Comes to Dress Codes

Dress codes can’t be explicitly discriminatory.

All students, whether transgender or cisgender, must be allowed to wear clothing consistent with their gender identity and expression.

Dress codes that are unevenly enforced against particular groups of students may violate laws prohibiting discrimination.

Schools can’t discriminate based on the viewpoint expressed by your clothing.

Dress and Grooming Policies Based on Gender Stereotypes

Learn More About the Issues on This Page

Related Content

Civil Rights Groups Tell Federal Appeals Court that Protections for Pregnant Workers Cover Abortion Care

How Sue Bird Is Supercharging Women's Sports

ACLU Condemns House Measure Against Department of Education Title IX Rule

Senate Armed Services Committee Advances Restrictions on Medical Care for Transgender Servicemembers

Essay: Pros and Cons of a Dress Code in Schools

Related Posts

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Essay on Dress Code

100 Words Essay on Dress Code

Why Dress Codes Matter

Pros and Cons

Dress Code Tips

250 Words Essay on Dress Code

500 Words Essay on Dress Code

Why Do We Have Dress Codes?

Pros of Dress Codes

Cons of Dress Codes

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

School Dress Code Debates, Explained

Education Issues, Explained

Sign Up & Sign In