Formal Wear or Not in the Classroom...

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Permalink Reply by Katy Scott on March 16, 2011 at 4:52pm

We were only allowed to wear jeans on Fridays or during field trips, but formal wear doesn't always mean heels and dresses. I taught elementary so I was on the floor a lot. I wore a lot of slacks and flats and even the occasional tennis shoe. Most of my clothes came from Target -- they were cheap and I didn't mind getting dirty in them, even if they were 'professional.'

 

I was always really opposed to formal wear in elementary schools, but one of my college professors made a good point. He said that school is a special place, and we need to communicate that to students. They wear uniforms a certain way (shirt tucked in, etc.) because it's a special place where people dress professionally, like church. A teacher's clothing can often communicate this better than his/her words or actions.

 

Good luck!

 

Katy Scott

Stretch Your Digital Dollar

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Permalink Reply by Irishjedi on March 16, 2011 at 6:46pm

You should look professional but not in a way that will restrict interacting with the little ones.  Some schools allow jeans, but my principal is completely against wearing them even if we take a collection for charity.  However, at my daughter's school the teachers wear jeans when they want.   It all depends on the admin.  I wear a shirt and tie almost every day.  Obviously see what the culture is like in the building you will eventually work in, but if you are going for a job dress to impress.

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Permalink Reply by John J Caprice on March 17, 2011 at 7:23pm

Dear Delanie,

 

Being an AV dealer, I visit many schools. The dress code varies from "slob" to business casual. I asked a Middle School principal, a fellow Rotarian about dress codes. She explained that the Principal sets the code.

I can tell you from my point of view as a visitor. The sweat suit teachers do not inspire confidence or respect on my part.

One may claim that "dress" does not make a better teacher, but I am not so sure about that!

Clothing gives an impression. It says something about you, it defines you.

"Dress like a slob, be treated like a slob", I quess my Mom was right.

JJC

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Permalink Reply by Lauraw on March 21, 2011 at 3:47am

I know this might sound a little daft but if your worried about getting an clothes dirty try wearing an apron. Something like this: 

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Permalink Reply by Hattie Delgado on April 18, 2011 at 9:17am

Growing up my parents emphasized the idea that dressing appropriately for certain events is always important.  When I first started doing my observations for my college classes, I was always told that you must wear nice slacks and a nice shirt.  Although my pants can get a little uncomfortable at times, I feel good about myself because I am "dressed for success."  I also do enjoy a "casual Friday" here and there, with appropriate jeans that are not filled with holes or frayed beyond belief.

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Permalink Reply by Jayme Braida on April 18, 2011 at 2:28pm

In today's society, teachers are becoming less and less respected~ by students and parents.  I can't tell you how many times I've heard comments about getting summers off, and being able to 'play with kids all day'.  If we want the community that we work in to view us as professionals, we have to dress like professionals.  If you don't have the funds to buy nice clothes, try Target.  It's really affordable and the clothes  are really cute! New York and Company is also a great store for slacks and blouses, and gives teachers a 10% discount (maybe 20, can't remember) when you show your school id.  Finally, this best fasion advice i could give is to spend 70% on accessories and only 30% on clothes.  This will help stretch your wardrobe a lot further!

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Permalink Reply by Don McPhee on April 25, 2011 at 6:20pm

Delanie, I am not a primary teacher, althoug I did teach elementary for 7 years, but I do believe that as professionals, we should wear professional attire.  I realize that not all administrators are the same however, those expectations should be made evident to staff early in one's tenure.  I also realize that not all classrooms, classroom setting (tech class, environmental studies, etc) require the same type of clothing but, teachers in those respective classrooms still must dress accordingly.  I teach in a uniform high school and as such believe that all staff should also adhere to a professionally attired uniform.  I think it goes a long way with your students, parents and the community to see teachers dress accordingly. It is modelling that our students need to see.

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