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The expectations for teacher appearances have become more casual as society has evolved. In the past, teachers were required to dress professionally and maintain a tidy appearance in the classroom. However, nowadays, many teachers disregard these expectations by choosing inappropriate clothing, hairstyles, and even using their cell phones during class. This lack of professionalism from teachers results in students not taking them seriously. Teachers have a responsibility not only to educate but also to serve as role models for children by presenting themselves in a professional manner.
As Juli Kwikkel (8/21/2003) emphasized, it is crucial to establish clear distinctions between the teacher and the student.
Due to the increasing problems caused by new, younger teachers, certain districts have started implementing dress codes. This practice is gaining popularity in schools and is not only applicable to students. In districts where students are required to follow a dress code but employees are not, this can lead to student resistance against the existing rules. This is primarily because many students will question why they have to adhere to a specific dress code while staff members can dress informally.
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According to Alleghany Highlands Public Schools' dress code regulations (8/21/2003), employees must dress professionally in line with their professional role.
It is widely agreed upon that teachers should avoid wearing casual clothing, such as belly shirts, jeans, flip flops, and t-shirts while working. These types of attire are considered more suitable for students. Instead, teachers are expected to dress in a professional and mature manner. This means wearing dress pants with a button-up shirt or an appropriate length skirt.
According to Beth Lewis, it is recommended for teachers to choose loose-fitting and well-tailored clothing, minimal makeup, comfortable shoes, and minimal jewelry. By following these suggestions, teachers can maintain their personal style while still projecting professionalism and earning respect from both colleagues and students.
In addition to guiding children's learning journey, the teacher also serves as a role model for them. Children closely observe their teacher, including how they present themselves. If a teacher dresses casually, it can be distracting and may hinder students from taking them seriously. Therefore, it is crucial for teachers to meet parents' expectations regarding the learning environment in both public schools and private institutions.
The teacher must provide a sense of security and authority to the students. This creates an environment conducive to learning. If the teacher behaves unprofessionally, they fail to set a good example for how adults should behave. This confuses the child's perception of adulthood. Just as in any profession, a teacher's appearance is important. Good hygiene and a put-together look are expected. Makeup and hairstyles are also important considerations.
Having multicolored hair and bold makeup can make it difficult to view someone as credible in a professional setting. Nowadays, some teachers are displaying blue, pink, and green hair all at once, disregarding conservative norms for work-appropriate makeup. Imagine being in a classroom where the teacher appears disheveled or sports unconventional hair colors and extravagant makeup. Would you consider them knowledgeable and proficient in their job? Or would you see them more as a student rather than an authority figure? Despite their qualifications, appearance often leaves a lasting impression. As a result, both students and colleagues are likely to have concerns, as there are certain expectations for teachers. It is not uncommon for faculty, students, and even parents to subject such teachers to bullying or create an uncomfortable work environment.
The act of not conforming to societal expectations can lead to charges of harassment or worse outcomes, causing teachers to constantly struggle to differentiate themselves. This battle also applies to children, who quickly form opinions about individuals and establish boundaries within the first five minutes. When a teacher is well-groomed and neatly dressed, they are more likely to gain respect from their students and effectively enforce discipline. Although teachers should have the freedom to dye their hair, it should be restricted to colors that appear natural.
One way for students to improve their focus on education is by eliminating distractions such as critiquing their teacher's appearance or fashion choices. In addition, teachers who exhibit positive behavior serve as role models for students in various settings, whether professional or non-professional.
The prevalence of cell phone usage has become a significant concern in classrooms due to the popularity of social media and texting. Both students and teachers are increasingly dependent on cell phones. However, if teachers use their cell phones for personal purposes like sending text messages, updating Facebook statuses, or tweeting, it not only distracts students but also exposes the teacher to potential violations of confidentiality laws.
The use of personal cell phones by teachers in class may lead students to believe they can do the same. Some schools allow phone usage during class, but this raises concerns about student learning effectiveness. If students are constantly distracted by texting or social media, they cannot fully benefit from their education. Instead of engaging in personal activities during class time, it would be more productive for teachers to prioritize their responsibilities and focus on teaching at their best, which is why they chose this profession. In the past, strict workplace expectations were enforced to ensure maximum productivity.
There is currently a growing relaxation in what is considered acceptable behavior and speech in the United States, driven by the pursuit of freedom of expression and nonconformity. However, many individuals choose not to voice their opinions due to fear of consequences. While people have the right to freedom of speech and self-expression, it's important to acknowledge appropriate context. In professional settings like schools, teachers willingly give up certain privileges. This does not mean they cannot freely express themselves outside of work. Nevertheless, teachers are expected to maintain certain standards, avoid offensive language, and establish themselves as authoritative figures rather than peers.
Teachers need to prioritize establishing a productive learning environment rather than focusing on their personal style. It is crucial for teachers to dress in a mature, classy, and professional manner. They should also keep their hair and makeup minimal, using natural earth tones. This approach guarantees effective learning for children and earns respect from students and colleagues. Moreover, such attire prevents any confusion about the person in charge when an authoritative figure enters the classroom.
Below are the references:
Lewis, B. (N.D.). The Right Threads= The Right Classroom Atmosphere. Retrieved from http://k6educators.about.com/od/classroommanagment/a/attire/htm
In a 2003 article by Barker, it was reported that a school is enforcing dress codes for its teachers. The full article can be accessed at http://www.usatoday.com/ufe/2003-08-20-dress-code_x.htm.
The source "Proper Attire For Teachers" by J. Lipoo provides information on appropriate clothing for teachers. The article can be accessed at http://joelipoo.hubpages.com/hub/properattire-for-teachers.com
Cheng, Yin Cheong. Journal of Educational Research. Jan/Feb96, Vol. 89 Issue 3
Gorham, Joan; Cohen, Stanley H.. Communication Quarterly, Summer99, Vol. 47 Issue 3
Before my first day in the classroom, I had many questions and concerns. I was worried about what to wear, what time to wake up and leave, and what activities would happen throughout the day. Despite my excitement about becoming a social studies teacher, I wasn't sure how the day would go.
When I entered the classroom, I saw neatly arranged rows of desks facing a white board and smart board. The walls were decorated with government and psychology posters, as well as Virginia Tech images. As I settled in, I waited for my cooperating teacher to arrive. They came in ten minutes before first period started. To figure out how many classes I would have, I looked at the bell schedule.
When my cooperating teacher walked into the room, they warmly greeted me and immediately made me feel comfortable and confident for the day ahead. As students started coming into the room, a young man approached me and asked "who are you?"
Throughout the day, I noticed that the students in each class were extremely curious about my presence. In every class, my cooperating teacher allowed me to introduce myself and the students listened attentively with genuine interest. It was fascinating to witness how each class had its own unique dynamics despite all learning the same material. This was something I hadn't considered before and I valued being able to observe these distinctions. The typical class routine involved taking attendance, reviewing homework, and engaging in a new worksheet or activity. Additionally, I witnessed how my cooperating teacher effectively handled talkative or disruptive behavior while delivering the lesson. As a result, I will approach the subject matter in my own style while still respecting and learning from her experienced techniques.
During the planning period, I had the chance to ask my cooperating teacher various teaching-related questions. She gave comprehensive responses and reassured me by sharing that she also started teaching at the same age as me. Additionally, she explained that although it might be difficult, it will eventually become easier and highly rewarding. Despite feeling nervous the night before and on the morning of my first day, I quickly became more relaxed and comfortable in the classroom. This experience confirmed my passion for teaching and ignited my enthusiasm for embarking on this journey to enhance my skills in this field, while recognizing that there is still much for me to learn.
The Importance of Professional Teacher Appearance. (2021, May 16). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/re-professionalism-in-the-classroom-essay
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