Case
Case Solved
Dress Code

Ms. Smith takes a class to the local elementary school once a week. In order for the students to participate, she requires that they dress professionally, either in khakis and dress shirt or appropriate dresses. There are a couple students who do not participate each week because they do not like the dress code, or because they say they can not afford clothing within the dress code. Should she alter the dress code for individual students or stick to the professional dress that she requires?

Posted on: 10/15/15 | Views: 2090
Solution #1
Top Solution
I would suggest attaching some form of incentive to being in dress code (dojo points, extra credit, hw pass, treats, etc.) something positive, to get additional students to participate. For those students with financial issues, I would refer that matter to the counselor or school social worker.

Good ideas!

This is a great idea, I would use this too.

Incentives can be very motivating. Good idea

Great idea!

This is an excellent idea!

I think these are great ideas! Adding incentives usually work for students.

This is a great idea, the counselor may be able to provide resources for the student who is unable to afford the professional clothes.

55 5
Solution #2
Top Solution
If this is a requirement for the class, it should be in Mrs. Smith's course syllabus. If it is, then the students should be required to wear the appropriate professional dress. There are solutions for the students who can not afford clothing. I know teachers who reach out to local clothing stores, and sometimes even big chains. Believe it or not, Walmart sells clothing now that would be fine for this type of activity. Some teachers even offer students the chance to fundraise for these items. There are also teachers/parents/community members who would sponsor clothing for a student. Lowering the standards or expectations will not benefit anyone in the long run, especially those particular students who would essentially be left out of the true experience.

I agree that there are several businesses that might be willing to help or donate clothing for students that cannot afford "nice" clothing.

46 0
Solution #3
I would base this decision on the reason these students are not abiding by the dress code. I work in a school where many of the students cannot even afford their school supplies. I would try speaking with the students on an individual basis to see exactly why they are not participating. If the students are not dressing professionally just because they do not want to, I would suggest taking away points or penalizing them. If they cannot afford to buy anything professionally, I would try asking if any of my coworkers were willing do donate, but I would never penalize them for their inability to buy something.

Great idea and very reasonable!

I like this post and suggestions. I think it is smart to ask each student individually why they are not participating and taking away points from the students who are not participating simply because of not wanting to wear the dress code. I agree that students who cannot afford the clothing should not be penalized for this.

15 0
Solution #4
I would suggest finding out from the parents what the root cause is. If it is in fact that they can't afford the clothing, then maybe have it provided by the school or as a teacher go out and get it for the kids, I would. Otherwise, if they are just merely not participating because they don't like the dress code, they need to learn that life isn't always about what we like or don't like, they need to be held accountable for their decisions or lack there of.
9 0
Solution #5
I understand the reasoning for the professional clothing but some students do not own those or can afford it. I would expand the dress code to include maybe dark jeans with not holes and plain shirts that have a certain neckline and shoulders are covered. I feel if they are in compliance with dress code at their school, there is no reason they cannot participate.
6 0
Solution #6
I would not alter the dress code for specific students. Although i would cut out the dress code all together if "dressing professionally" is not in the syllabus. As it does not give students with financial issues a fair warning
6 0
Solution #7
Give examples of what is considered "appropriate".For those that are on a tight budget, suggest second-hand shops. There are also places that will donate clothing to causes. Also, provide an incentive-- that usually works.
5 0
Solution #8
I understand what Ms. Smith is trying to do, but children should not be penalized if their family cannot afford dress clothes.

I concur, it also opens the door for the teacher/school to get in trouble for such a thing

6 1
Solution #9
I do believe that she should stick to the professional dress code. However, I would do a fundraiser and have the students that need some support to attend and work the fundraiser to purchase them items I would not make them aware that the fundraiser is for that purpose. You may want to purchase the uniforms for the students that cannot afford them. I would also call home to ensure that they cannot afford them.
5 0
Solution #10
If this is her policy then it should be sent home to the parents in a form type paper. If the students don't want to participate because "they don't like it" then maybe something will entice them like a homework pass or something. For the kids who cant afford it I know some teachers who can get affordable clothes or maybe send some store in the form to the parents that will make the clothing affordable.
5 1
Solution #11
One solution to this that I have come up with is to inform the parents of the dress code. For students are unable to afford clothes, maybe it would be possible to have other parents and teachers donate clothes so that everyone can participate.
4 0
Solution #12
Always remember, in elementary, the parents usually dress their children. A lot of times, depending where you teach, it could be a lower end poverty school. A lot of times, students do not choose their clothing. I would kind of take a step back and remember that children do not choose their clothing. Take it a bit easy on them
4 0
Solution #13
Having an incentive for the students will help them want to participate. Rewards, extra play time etc. Maybe having extra clothes in the classroom for students who cant afford it or call a social worker to see if there is anyting they can do
4 0
Solution #14
In terms of the students who simply do not like the dress code, I do not think this is acceptable. The rule should not be changed for this reasoning. I think it is important that the students dress professionally for this. I think in terms of the student who say they cannot afford clothing within the dress code, I would suggest second hand shops or thrift stores to look for professional clothes. This would be a less expensive way for the students to get the dress code clothing. If the students cannot afford the clothing even at a low price, then I would talk with the student and work out another option and maybe make an exception for that student.
3 0
Solution #15
I think that Ms Smith is doing the right thing by sticking to the dress code for that school, I have taken classes once a week at an elementary school and my teacher has always ask for dressing properly. I understand that there may be some shortcomings about buying dressing clothes, but I think that a pair of black pants or khakis and a not showing shirts, even school logo shirt will so fine.
3 0
Solution #16
As a teacher who requires this for a class I would make sure that each parent signs a waiver saying they also under the requirements of the class. If and then the parent expresses concern over not being able to afford proper attire then I would assist in this matter. Thrift stores and donation places aid in this and would start collecting proper attire for these trips for my class. If the student is just unwilling then I would make the grade of these students reflect their unwilling participation.
3 0
Solution #17
Find a solution with the parents, also have some clothing in the class so kids can use that when they need to.
3 0
Solution #18
It is not the students fault if they cannot afford the clothing she is asking of the students. I would at least see if she could omit the policy for one trip so that every student has the chance to experience the trip whether they are professionally dressed or not. Behavior reflects professionalism in students, not their clothing.
2 0
Solution #19
Yes I think she should take the dress code away because many students don't have that kind of clothing. I would just ask students to dress a little bit more professional but not really ask then how to do it.
2 0
Solution #20
I think that she should alter the dress code for these students, some of these students can't help what situation they are in and may now be able to dress this way due to expenses.
2 0
Solution #21
I do not think that Ms.Smith should have to alter the rules, but I also feel that all students should be able to participate. I know when I was in high school for prom, we had the "dress shop", which was donated dresses and tuxedos that students could rent for free for prom. I feel that if Ms. Smith was able to get donations of dress clothes for the class it would help the students who cannot afford clothing within the dress code.
2 0
Solution #22
Ms. Smith should stick to the professional dress code to ensure that the students in the elementary school do not become distracted or concerned with the visitors clothing. If Ms. Smith's students are unable to afford new clothing possibly ask for donations from others or provide resources for clothing that is inexpensive to purchase.
2 0
Solution #23
A monthly school meeting where students to have school officials listen to their concerns and suggestions on the dress codes. By doing this, it will make the students feel like their voices are being heard.
2 0
Solution #24
Incentives are a great idea for students who do not like the dress code, but for students who cannot afford the clothing that is not appropriate to punish them for that reason. Instead, I would reach out to the administration on working on possibly having a clothes drive where students across the campus could donate clothes that can be kept on campus in a closet that would be used for low income students to rent out when needing specific clothes.
2 0
Solution #25
I think she should grant a little bit of leniency, but not too much. For instance, jeans could be okay, but they can't be ripped. That way, the students still look dressed appropriately, but it is not over-the-top expensive.
2 0
Solution #26
I think this depends on knowing if the students aren't doing it because they can't afford the clothes or if they just don't like them. That is a huge difference. If the students can't afford the clothes, and there is no other solution (like the school having some available), then it is unreasonable for the teacher to make that expectation and should end the dress code for all students. You can't end it just for the individual ones who aren't because there would be others questioning it and whats stopping them from then not wearing dress code themselves. If it's just not them liking them, have to contact parents and make sure they are aware of what their child should wear on that day. If they still don't and the parent has ensured you that they do have those clothes, a consequence should be giving, like the student can't go on the field trip and has to do work with someone from administration.
2 0
Solution #27
I would create an appointment system where students that do not have access to professional clothes can meet with the teacher. I cannot speak about clothing for females, but for males, thrift stores almost always have professional clothing for just a few dollars. If the teacher plans on making this a consistent project for the class, I would create a professional closet that community members could donate to and students could borrow clothes.
1 0
Solution #28
In order for this to be mandatory I think the teacher must make sure that all students have access to the appropriate clothing. After this step the teacher can add participation points by dressing in the appropriate clothing. I also think the teacher can make this a teaching moment for the students by showing that they are being an example to the younger students.
1 0
Solution #29
It is true that some may not be able to afford the clothing within the dress code. Those who state that they do not like the dress code, well that is simply unacceptable. May a clothing drive could be initiated so that all students have something to wear when they visit the elementary school. After that, those who do not comply should not be allowed to attend.
1 0
Solution #30
I understand the principle behind teaching the students to dress professionally, but each of the students may not be able to afford khakis and a dress code. Maybe they can wear the best attire they have at home. The teacher can send home a letter to the parents and let them know that their child needs to be in their best dressed attire for the class. Or the school can donate khakis in varies sizes for kids to "check out" of the closet and use for the day.
1 0
Solution #31
I would first speak to the parents and remind them of the dress code. If it a problem of affordability, work with the parents and see what the school can do to make sure their student is wearing the right close. Also you can give rewards for being in the right clothing for a period of time.
1 0
Solution #32
Don't alter the dress code. If students don't want to abide by the dress code rules then they should not be aloud to come. For students who can't afford these clothes, you could ask for donations from other students or reach out to the community to organize a clothing drive.
1 0
Solution #33
I think she should alter the dress code to be inclusive for the students who might not be able to afford, offer alternatives such as jeans and an appropriate top. It can still be professional within reason without them having to go buy clothes or ask their parents.
1 0
Solution #34
I think for those who are not dressing up professionally Ms. Smith should contact the parents inquiring about the cause and offering assistance for those who cannot afford the dress code. For students who do not dress up have a consequences where they cannot go to the local elementary school and they have to stay and do classwork at school.
3 2
Solution #35
I think that dressing professionally should be an option (Not necessary, but suggested), but if students do not dress professionally, they still need to dress modestly. She could give out extra credit points to those who make the effort to dress professionally. Another thing that Ms. Smith could do is talk to her students about dressing professionally along with knowing how to choose appropriate, modest clothes. Finally, she could show students how to save money when dressing professionally and let them know that they do not have to buy something from an expensive store. Also, there are resources that schools can offer to students that are less fortunate and cannot afford to buy new clothes. Ms. Smith can privately recommend students to use those resources or include it in her lesson about dressing professionally and saving money.

I agree with this solution

2 1
Solution #36
Use incentives but stick with the professional dress code.
1 1
Solution #37
You can stick to the dress code. For those students that simply do not want to participate, you can discipline them. For the students that cannot afford the attire, go to Goodwill or ask other students to bring in extra clothing.
2 2
Solution #38
I wouldn't make it where they have to do it. I would explain to the students if they wanted to participate, then they will get extra credit or no homework that night. For the children that cant afford it and wanted to do it they could talk to you privately or have a parent email you to let you know they cant afford it and you could help them out some.
1 1
Solution #39
I feel that the dress code should continue to be required. Appropriate dress is a great skill for the students to acquire. There are always going to be situations in life where the students have to dress and act in a professional manner, and just as they would have to dress in any future career, I feel that they should be required follow the dress code.
2 2
Solution #40
I certainly think that the kids should be held accountable. Maybe someone would be willing to donate clothing items to them. There are usually parents, teachers, etc that will do donations to provide for these kids.

My high school donated prom and homecoming dresses to those that could not afford them

I like the idea of asking for donations from parents, teachers and others. I think this is a smart idea and could be a very helpful solution.

1 4
Solution #41
I would suggest referring the matter to the administrators or guidance department. The dress code is the dress code and it must be followed. There are people in the school that will assist the students that can't afford the clothing.
1 10
Solution #42
As an educator that works in a uniform school. I do understand the views of Ms. Smith but students that do not have the money should not be punished. Those who just chose not to dress up needs an should receive some kind of consequence.

I agree with the ideas, but is it a solution?

This is not a solution to the problem.

How would you help the students that are not dressing appropriately?

6 23