In the Internship meeting on Thursday we talked a little bit about Dispositions when Dr. Walizer was referring to the Conceptual Framework assignment.
What are your thoughts on Dispositions? Does the way we dress really matter? Does it really matter if I have tattoos and the students can see them? Does it really matter if my students see me at the grocery store and I'm wearing pajamas because I just wanted a donut? Lets talk about this.
Splichal
I think dispositions are very important, more so for educators than people in other professions. I'm not going to lie, I have run out of the house in pajamas before, but I feel guilty doing it.
ReplyDeleteWhen I was younger I remember thinking my teachers were almost mystical, all-knowing people. If I ran into my teacher at the grocery store I was astounded- I had no idea teachers shopped for food, I thought they only existed in schools! Imagine if my teacher had been in a Bud Light t-shirt and cut off shorts. I think my perception of them would have changed greatly. Yes, we are all people with lives that happen outside of the school, but we should try to think about the influence we have over our students at all times.
If my daughter's teacher participated in a 'wet t-shirt' contest I would have significant doubts about her ability to teach my daughter to become a smart, capable, and independent young lady who valued her intelligence over her physical attributes.
Where am I going with all this? It matters. The things we do and say have a profound impact over our students and our future students. How we carry ourselves, the activities we choose to partake in, and the choices we make professionally and personally can affect how our students see us. Some students do not have role models in their homes, and teachers often serve as the substitutes for these kids, I want my influence to be a positive one.
I think it matters how we show are selves and we have to remember that we never know who is watching. I have kids that tell me all the time they saw me in the store. I don't remember seeing them, but they saw me. What was I doing? Was I acting appropriately? Was I dressed appropriately? I hope so. Children watch us like hawks. They see everything. We have to lead the example by how we look, how we act, what we write on Facebook, and even who we are seen with. I think it's important to look nice it just leaves a good impression. Think when you encountered someone that creaped you out a little bit. That person working at the store or restaurant that had something that you didn't like, a tattoo, earring, nose ring, hair not combed or clothes that were dirty.Did you think there was anything that they could teach you or did you think you wanted to be like them. I see kids everyday with head lice, they smelled because they had dirty clothes and haven't brushed their teeth in days or maybe longer. These kids need role models. We don't have to show off or dress to extravagant. We need to be comfortable and in proper attire. I don't wear dresses or skirts because I do a lot of teaching from the floor and trying not to show things that should not be seen would be very difficult to me. I wouldn't want to make children feel uncomfortable. Have you ever sit down and the person in front of you was bending over or siting in a way that exposed them. The whole time your trying to find a way to let them know without embarrassing them but your embarrassed and uncomfortable. I have seen more teachers acting improper around children then I would like to so as a teacher you have to be thinking all the time "is the way I am behaving or what I am doing proper and a good example for ?"
ReplyDeleteI do believe dispositions are important. I feel that it is ok for an educator to have a personal taste as long as it displays a positive image. Going to the grocery store in your pj's is probably not displaying a positive image if you would happen to run into a student or a parent. Teachers are meant to be a role model for students, so they should behave/dress in a manner to be such. I think odd piercings and visible tatoos can be distracting to the students and should probably be avoided. I try to think about how I would feel if I ran into one of my daughter's teachers somewhere outside of school and they were dressed sloppily or doing questionable behavior. I think that it is important for professional educators to set an example to their students and dress and act for success. All of that being said, I"m not saying a professional educator must be dressed in dress clothes every time they go into public, but dressing nicely with clean fitting clothes is a must.
ReplyDeleteI feel dispositions are important in our everyday lives. Thinking back, I feel that the way we were even in middle school and high school was setting us up to be either successful in our career or unsuccessful. When you are a junior and senior in high school you aren’t really thinking about your actions affecting your career path you are going to be working towards in college or later in life. Becoming a teacher is something that you just don’t jump into!!! It is something you do your entire life without even being in a classroom.
ReplyDeleteI also think about small towns! I was born and raised in a small town where everyone knows everyone’s business. I look back now and think; all those same families are still there and still know everything about everyone. So dispositions are a thing to think about all the time!!!
I actually laughed when I read the example about going to the grocery store in pajamas. I intern at an elementary school literally across the street from my house, which means I see kids (not just from the classrooms I’ve been in) all over town. Do I go to the store in my pajamas? No, but I will run errands in sweats after I’ve just ran four miles. I think there is an understanding (and reality) that teachers have lives outside of being in school as a teacher. I think it’s possible to keep a professional composure while out in public. I have actually talked to my mentors about this, because I’m not used to seeing students out in public. I think they have both told me to get used to it, and just remember we have lives too!
ReplyDeleteI like what you had to say Emily because I think your right. Reality,there have been times when I just worked out and I stopped for milk on the way home, it's 6am and I have kids to get up and get to school. I have also had times when I'm fixing something at home or working in the yard when I discover I need something, I'm not going in to take a shower and change, I just go. I also take in the fact that I'm not dressed in something inappropriate or something that is beer or alcohol.
DeleteDispositions are very important. Like Tiffany, I live in a small town. Students see me all the time and I am a role model, so I should always consider how I am dressed and how I act. Last year, I had the opportunity to be a long-term sub in Kindergarten. After school or on the weekends I would see students at the grocery store. Students are all different. Some are shy and smile and wave in the grocery store and I can hear them whisper to their parents, "That is my teacher." Some run up to me, nearly knocking me over, to give me a hug. I always smile at them and say hello and sometimes chat with the parents if I feel they are comfortable. It is always small talk (nothing about their child in public for sure). Living in a small town is always interesting. Last week, my father-in-law asked me if we were selling our house. He heard it at the coffee shop. We were very surprised we were moving. Ha ha Even things like that we have to handle with grace and a sense of humor. We should ask those at the coffee shop where we are moving to. That might be helpful. As teachers, everything we do will be scrutinized and looked at through a microscope. We will be held to a higher standard (as we should be). We need to live up to that higher standard, keep our sense of humor and handle misconceptions with grace and dignity. After all, we are teaching the future generations how to behave and how to be great citizens.
ReplyDelete. As I am becoming more involved in the classroom and in the school setting, I am very aware of how important professionalism is with colleagues, parents and the administration. Teachers must be able to present themselves in a professional manner, which includes, how they dress, how they talk, how they write in emails, how they interact with the children, parents, teachers, and administration. These points have resonated with me during my internships, by being able to see firsthand the importance of this in this profession. People that work with children need to have a high regard to boundaries in what they say, how they dress, and how they interact with everyone that comes in contact with the school.
DeleteI think that disposition is really important. But I think that it means more than just what we were. I think that it is important to look and act professional. But students need to know that we are real people too. I am not typically one to run to the store in my pajamas, but I don't see a problem with going to the store in decent looking sweats. For example, a workout outfit or gardening clothes. I think that kids relate to their teachers better if they feel that they are a real person. I don't however agree with going to the store with your hair in curlers and wearing old ratty or dirty looking clothes. Kids need to see you working out in the yard on the weekend and playing at the park with your kids. I do think that it is important to look professional at school at all times. I don't necessarily me we have to be dressed up everyday! If all of the teachers are wearing a certain t-shirt on the same day, I think it's fine to wear it, especially if you wear it with nice pants and shoes.
ReplyDeleteDispositions are very important especially in relation to the life of an effective educator. I believe the way one portrays themselves in appearance and in personality (at all times) shows who the person truly is. As far a dressing appropriately while working at school, I am one of those people that LOVE to dress up; so dressing up to go to work at a school is wonderful for me. In fact the students and teachers always say “You know when Ms. Ryan is coming down the hall…you can hear her.” Almost every day I wear high-heels to school and being the only one in the school that does so, everyone always knows it is me tapping my way up and down the hall! I do believe that students respect an educator much more when they are well dress and manicured. Just as a soldier is given respect in uniform, teachers are given respect in proper attire.
ReplyDeleteIt was not until one night about 3 years ago when I was sitting in a restaurant having a glass of wine and a student came up to give me a hug, did I even think about having the glass of wine in public. People think I am crazy but if I am at a restaurant and decide to have a glass of wine, I will have the waiter place it in a regular glass not a “wine” glass. While it may not seem like a big deal to most people, I am very serious about my appearance and what people think of me and this is completely in relation to me working at a school with children.
When one chooses to become an educator one is choosing to be a role model and mentor for their students. The educator should be concerned about their appearance at all times even if they just want to run into a store real quick to grab something. I am not saying that the educator has to be “decked out” in nice clothes all of the time but, NO, pajamas, swimsuits, shirts with inappropriate wording, etc. are not acceptable.
I think the professional beliefs, values, and conduct educators display are extremely important, both in and outside of school. I also believe in individuality and staying true to yourself. In the beginning of this course I learned how important it is to follow through with examples for students. In the Hoobastank song called Don’t Tell Me it speaks about how a teachers actions are going to speak louder than his or her words. Children will more likely remember what you do in class than what you say. I think this applies to dispositions as well. If a teacher dresses in high class clothing just to seem as professional as possible in school the students will notice this. The students will then really notice if they see that same teacher in the grocery store in pajamas. It just might not make since because that’s not who their teacher appears to be in class all the time. This is why I think teachers should stay true to their own individuality while still holding dispositions at a high level of importance. You don’t have to dress in the nicest most expensive clothing as an educator, but you need to look professional and well groomed. We want to teach students to accept others for who they are and to be open minded when it comes to differences. I’d say one of the most important dispositions is letting students know who you are. Let them know that you’re active or lead a busy life outside of school. Then if they see you in workout clothes or running to the store to get your baby some medicine in your pajamas it may be easier for them to understand why. You just have to let them know that you’re normal, just like them and their parents. Now I’m not saying that a teacher should wear sweats to school because that is his or her style. I think people who want to be educators want that level of respect anyway so their styles cater to that. When I begin teaching I want my students to know and understand that I’m their partner in their education. I want them to know that I am always me, no matter what I’m wearing. I will always stay true to my actions and professional modeling for them. If I did ever run into the grocery store in my pajamas and ran into a student I think I would just be myself as I am in class. I would still be that same professional person. We always lecture children to not judge others by their appearances but to get to know them for who they really are. Our actions define a lot of who we are. A teacher can run into a student at the grocery store in her pajamas and still be that same professional person. It's all about what we do, not what we say, if we act like we're normal then we'll be accepted like we're normal.
ReplyDeleteI think disposition is important, but I am not sure if I would carry this to the extreme. I grew up in a small town, and one of my brothers still goes to high school there. In this small town I have seen my teachers dress in everything from shirts with beer companies on it, maybe because that is where their husbands worked, to fancy dresses from a wedding, and everything in between. I have seen them at our public pool in bathing suites, and I have seen some of them working second jobs. I have seen them with tattoos, I have visited some in the hospital for different reasons, and I have been close friends with some of the children so I have seen the inside of their homes. I know I never thought that they were any less of a teacher because they did not dress the same out of school as they did inside the school. I asked my mom and dad if anything like this made a difference to them, and they laughed and said no.
ReplyDeleteNow as for myself I do not make it a common occurrence to even step outside my door without a shower and my hair fixed, but that is just how I am. When I work around my house, like today, I wear shorts/sweats and a t-shirt, I might even wear the same thing to the store later. When I go to the school I dress appropriately for teaching. When I go to the school to pick up my son on days I am not in the classroom, I usually look the same except I wear shorts, capris, or jeans. The students might see me in the hallway, but they do not look at my clothes just are just happy to see me. I think it is important to dress appropriately for the profession, but do not let your job take over your life. My husband and I have one child, and one on the way, sometimes it is all I can do to get to the store with my son. I am not sure that I every walk out looking dumpy, but I might walk out the most basic of outfit on. I do not think, “Is this how I want people to see me?” I really think, “Is this going to be comfortable to do my errands in with my son, and if he spills on me will I care in this shirt?” Your student’s parents usually will not mind if you are not in your Sunday best every day, but when they stop by the school you better be dressed to teach their child.
I do have one question though: We are all talking about our dress and tattoos, but what about your family lifestyle? Living in a small town I know that everyone will know everyone else’s business. The town is very close minded, not me, but mainly the older people that run the town and are on the school board. They hired a teacher a few years ago for high school English, and to coach softball. I was in her class and on her softball team, and from what the students could tell she was great at both. When the end of the first semester came this teacher had her family out for Christmas, this included her partner. The whole town found out she was same sex oriented, and freaked out. They had no problem that she had a tattoo, or that she went around town in shorts and t-shirts most of the time, but they did have a huge problem with her personal life. At the end of the year they did not re-new her contract, I am not really sure why but the rumors did fly. My class learned from her, she was a great teacher, and as a player of hers I can say she knew softball and was able to coach well. So again my question is do you have to change your whole lifestyle to become a teacher? On a personal level, I am interning in a Catholic school, my son attends the school, but my husband is Atheists. Should I be afraid the school could find this out?
I think disposition is VERY VERY important in the field that we work in! They say that you shouldn't judge people by the way the look but first impressions say a lot in the work field. It tells employers whether or not you are put together and whether or not you can be professional. I'm not one to judge people either and I'm all about personal preference. However, if you have a sleeve tattoo and you go in for a teaching position will they choose you over someone that has the same qualifications and educations but no tattoo? I really can't say. But I know that is something that I just don't believe in. Same with piercings. Sorry if I offended anyone. Again, just a personal preference.
ReplyDeleteI'm seeing a lot of the same responses about needing to look professional all the time, whether you are in school or outside in the community; however, I have somewhat of a problem of this. I've even discussed this with my mentors. Teacher's have lives outside of school, and honestly I don't think the students need explanations as to why they may see us in sweats, a t-shirt, and a ponytail in public. I go to the gym, and if I have other errands to run that day I probably will do them before or after working out... It saves me gas, which in turn saves me money. Another person mentioned having his or her glass of wine in a normal glass when out to dinner. Typically, when I go to dinner I won't drink, but if there happens to be a time I do, I think the only thing that's important is that I'm of age. We have to be 21 to drink, and if you're of the age, what's wrong with a glass of wine with dinner? I do not think it will be the first time that a student sees an alcoholic beverage, and I find it really hard to believe the first thing they'll notice at your table is that glass of wine. You're their teacher, and they're going to be more excited to see you and not what's in your glass or on your plate. I think professionalism can be kept without worrying about being all dressed fabulously and worrying about how you come off to the public. Yes, you're a teacher, but you're also a human being and have a life outside of the classroom!
ReplyDeleteI agree, I don't think that looking professional all the time means that you can't wear sweats, a t-shirt, or a pony-tail in public. As you said, teachers have lives and errands to run too. However, I think there's a difference between sweats and pajamas or a pony-tail and hair that looks like it hasn't been brushed. That's the difference to me between looking casual and looking sloppy. I think you can still dress casually and be professional, as long as you don't look sloppy.
DeleteEmily, I liked think you brought up some very logical and economical points. I think that there is just a fine line that will be walked at all times. As a male I consider myself a role model at all times. Whether it be on the field, in the classroom, or during my current job. I have found that respect is not gained or lost on everyday clothing. It is lost by creating an image of something different than normal or doing something taboo. Athletic shorts and a cut off short after I mow the yard? Thats normal that is what people do. In the classroom looking professional? That is normal. In my front yard in a random outfit that probably not man should wear? Not normal at all that is when respect is lost.
DeleteEmily,
DeleteI completely agree with your thoughts here. I definitely do not think teachers should be expected to dress fabulously all the time. When you live in a small community where you're likely to run into your students outside of school most of their parents will already know you and about the lifestyle you live. Students will understand that you are human to. Many of them have witnessed their parents run out and about in their pjs or have an alcoholic drink. If you let your students know you are a professional by your actions in school they will think of you that way, no matter what you're wearing. If they see you in pjs int he store or at a restaurant having some wine that image won't affect them as much as your behavior. If you still act as a mature adult I don't see a reason why these situations would negatively affect your professional figure. Good post.
Emily,
DeleteYour thoughts were refreshing to read! We are human beings and can only be expected to be ourselves. I don't want my students to see me as a hypocrite and I don't plan to lead a deceiving lifestyle to portray a perception for my students!!
I am really enjoying reading these comments, I would have to agree with Emily 100% though. There are some Saturday mornings that my son and I crawl out of bed, throw on some sweat pants, and run to the donut shop! There are days that I'm out working in my garden and need to run to the store to get more flowers; and there are summer days when I want to take my son to the swimming pool! There are just certain scenarios that you can't always look professional-we do have lives outside of teaching! I think that if a student saw us looking like "ourselves" on the weekend, they may even relate to us more! I think that disposition is incredibly important and as a teacher certainly we should always be conscious of what others are seeing of us, but I don't think we should have to change our lifestyle outside of school for our student's sake! The questions Mr. Splichal asked at the beginning are a little difficult to answer because they have two sides! I'm anxious to see what everyone else has to say!
ReplyDeleteNo matter where you live, a small rural community or large city, disposition is extremely important; inside and outside the classroom. Yes, we have lives outside the classroom but no matter what it is also important to understand that teachers are role models and no matter where you go or what you do, a teacher needs to present themselves in a respectful manner, whether that be in your attire or your public display of respect to others. I agree that sweats are one thing, you can make those look presentable, being dirty from sports or working out in the garden is another as well…it’s not like you haven’t taken a bath for five days! And it’s another thing showing up to class wearing clothes that are not appropriate or having inappropriate piercings. This is a professional setting just like any other professional line of work.
DeleteThere is a 5th grade teacher at the school I intern for and I walk by her room every week. Every time I see her it seems to me that her disposition is way OFF! She looks like she just got out of bed and she’s always teaching from her desk. She is a newer teacher and I would think she would have been taught this or the school principle would put stricter guidelines to her appearance. I look at it and think- She doesn’t care to be there. I guess I lose a little respect for her because I don’t know I feel as a teacher you need to not only look professional and clean but act it as well.
I feel that the question of “disposition” is really two separate questions. First; is teaching and being a teacher a professional career? And second; are teachers role models? I would answer “yes” to both these questions. SO to me this means…
ReplyDeleteTo say a teaching or being a teacher is to have a professional career, to me, means it should be treated as such. This means that when you are in your professional environment (the school or school function) you are a professional. This extends to dress, as well as behavior. You should be professional not only in your conduct with your fellow co-workers and administrators, but also with your students and your student’s parents. If we think of other professional careers, lawyers, doctors, financial advisors, etc.; what do you expect of them? Would you trust someone with your health, legal, or financial well-being who dressed sloppily and treated their career casually? I wouldn’t. Some may say it is a stretch to compare teachers to doctors, lawyers, or financial advisors; but I don’t. As a teacher you are in a position to shape and mold a child’s future and have a responsibility to their educational and often overall well-being. Both the child and the child’s parents trust you to help them to the best of your ability; doesn’t that sound like a profession that deserves a lot of respect?
This brings me to my second point, teachers are role-models. Students look up to and often adore their teachers. Undoubtedly you will see a child and their parents when you are out and about in the community, and the child will wave and say hi to you. What image are you projecting and is it one you would be proud for them to see? I don’t think this means that you can’t wear sweats to the grocery store or dress casually, but I think there is a difference between sweats that are paint stained or have holes and yoga pants and a causal t-shirt. I also think there is a difference between dressing casually and showing too much skin. Right or wrong, people will form opinions about you based on how you dress and society as a whole holds common ideas about what dressing a certain way means. Wearing sweats and dressing casually is ok, but make sure you are still projecting an image that is favorable to the profession you are representing.
After reading all the above responses I am lead to believe that we all have our own views on this subject.
ReplyDeleteI think that Dr. Walizer focuses on this issue because she has seen so many examples of what not to do. I don't think she is saying that we can't jump in our cars after mowing the lawn and run to the grocery store to pick up lunch. I think what she is saying is that we need to be aware of what we are projecting to the world. The short shorts, nose rings, and low neckline tank tops are a thing of the past if we expect to be respected by our community and our students. Yes, we are real people with real lives but when we signed up to be educators I think we also signed up to present ourselves in a professional manner that may require us to take a second look at our appearance.
To add to this argument I would alos interject that social meida seems to be a problem for many educators recently. I know of many teachers who think it is acceptable to facebook students and talk freely. Although I would argue this behavior can lead to more harm than help. I may be in the minority on this issue but I just don't think that our students, at least elementary students, don't need to know what is going on in our social lives, via facebook.
I agree completely. I also think you bring up a good point about teachers who facebook students. To me this is a huge NO. I currently work in retail management and make it a point not to facebook anyone I currently work with because of the problems I have had with this in the past. It just blurs boundaries and to me is a huge conflict of interest.
DeleteIn Missouri it is against the law to have any students as your friends on social media websites, with the exception of your own children. I never understood why anyone would want to be friends with their students anyway. I would think that a teacher would want to leave a small part of their life private.
DeleteJena,
DeleteI think your right about why Dr. Walizer focuses on this issue. We just need to be aware of our appearance and we need to recognize that we are role models. I like that you brought up facebook as well. Students are more likely to focus on our actions and things we say rather than how we look. I definitely do not think it is appropriate for an educator to have a student on facebook. This can lead to so much trouble. There is actually a setting on facebook that allows you to prevent anyone from finding you on facebook. You can still have your facebook profile and add friends but a student couldn't type your name in the search engine and find you. I think all teachers should look into this. Their social lives on facebook aren't something students need to be concerned with.
Jen Watson - I didn't know about that law in Missouri. That's very interesting!
Dispositions matters absolutely! The way we dress I think absolutely matters. If you are going to the beach, would you wear a three piece dress suit? No right. So when we are going to work we need to dress professionally. As teachers we are role models like it or not. Children love to say that I want to be a teacher just like teacher X. Now, if teacher X tattoos are visible guess what Sue is going to want one just like teacher X. We are going to be in the public’s eyes believe it or not. It matters wherever we go to dress and behave appropriately. A teacher I believe is on a different level than other professions. My principal always says that there are three kinds of people in the world, male, female and teachers. Why because we are special. So let us go out there and be the best professionals that we can be.
ReplyDeleteI think dispositons matter a lot. Though I do have a generally different take on the matter. As a male I feel that I always need to be on my toes as role model and professional. I think that my attitude and actions speak far more than what my normal everyday appearance. Now I think that dressing beyond normal appearance into something taboo or completely different would be an issue. Many people have mentioned that not dressing like a slob when going to the grocrery store after you mowed the lawn might be an issue. Would it not important to project to students that doing work at your home and having pride is important? If I just got done exercising and might be sweaty and in gym clothes. Would it not be important for students to see that physical exercise and appearance is important for the body? just some questions that I as myself as a professional teacher who is also a role model.
ReplyDeleteI think being seen in exercise clothes, or shorts and a t-shirt because you have been working in the yard is far different than going to the store in pj's and slippers. I even think sweats are ok if its cold & you are coming and going from a place like the gym. I think that students who see you doing those diverse things will start to understand more that you are a person rather than someone who is just a teacher and should only be seen in teacher clothes. I think that what we choose to wear should be within the limits of decency and respect to others, and if that is a pair of running shoes, gym shorts, and t-shirt than its ok as long as the clothes fit, and you appear to be as neat as you can be after working out. You know what I mean? To me being a slob is going around with your pants falling down and you can see a plumbers butt, or a woman wearing an all to revealing top, or a child sagging their pants on purpose:). Those are all situations which say I don't care that you have to look at my boobs, butt, or that you don't like the way I look, I will wear what I want regardless of who sees me and what it says about me.
DeleteRichard, I must agree with you here. Dressing appropriately for physical activity and yard/house work is a sign or pride in a sense. I think it is good for a student to see that someone values their health and maintains their home. I think that is totally acceptable and shows a good work ethic, but maybe going to a restaurant in those same clothes might be less acceptable.
DeleteGreat points Richard! I hadn't thought about how dressing like this might teach another lesson all on it's own. I really do think students would recognize that you were working hard when they saw you in sweaty work clothes. Would it be very appealing? No probably not but it would show them that you are a hard worker and do take pride in caring for your property. Them seeing you in workout clothes would have a similar affect, like you said. They would see you as someone who takes pride in their health. Since we're role models to hem maybe it will give them the desire to work hard and be healthy as well. Great points in your post!
DeleteI feel that all educators are held to a higher standard than most other professions. We are seen as role models in every situation. From Facebook to the classroom and everywhere in between the public see educators differently. I remember my junior high math teacher talking to us about how teachers were looked at. He said that he couldn’t go to the local bar on a Friday night to meet friends because people would not like that he was there. I didn’t understand that at the time but in recent years it has become more and more clear. I even remember a couple of my children’s teachers and some things that they had done in public and thinking that it wasn’t what a “role model” should do. Like it or not people don’t see us as people in public, we are always teachers. That is the way we should behave also. Children don’t make the distinction that we are people too, we are always their teachers.
ReplyDeleteI agree, it makes me think of my pastor. Would I like to see my pastor @ a bar drinking every weekend? No I would not so we do have to be careful with how we dress, what we say, and how we act. I know teachers at my children's school have posted pictures of themselves out in a bar drinking and I thought it was very inappropriate. I am not saying I think drinking is bad for everyone, but when you are an educator you have to always be thinking about who is watching you and how that may affect your career, and your students.
DeleteTo me this is a great topic to discuss as future educators. I absolutely feel like the way we dress and carry ourselves is important to our profession. I have been so impressed with the way the teachers at the school that I work with dress. Many of us would probably agree that teachers are definitely not overpaid, so it is sometimes surprising to me how some of them dress so nicely.
ReplyDeleteWhen we bring up the topic of how the way we dress effects the children's perception of us, I begin to think about some of the comments students make to me every day. I know someone mentioned above that those kids watch us like hawks, and it's so true! I have students comment almost every day on something about me, whether it be my hair, my clothes or my accessories. The kids will notice if I wear my hear down and put it in to a ponytail later that day. They will notice if I am wearing a band aid on my finger and will ask a ton of questions about that. I guess my main point is that if they take that much notice about our physical appearances, then it is important to portray ourselves properly in that aspect.
This will be tough for me, because although I dress nicely for work, I tend to put on my lounge clothes once I get home. In fact, we are off school today and here I sit with my t-shirt and sweats talking about dressing professionally! :)
I think to a certain degree how we dress does affect how people view us. This year there has been an issue with parents who come to our school. There is one man who came into the school to pick up his child and he was wearing a motorcycle jacket that on the back of it had a skeleton hand flipping the middle finger at anyone looking at it. Is that appropriate, in a school especially, I think it is not appropriate for anyone who walks into a school building, or anywhere else in my opinion. I think we need to be aware of our surroundings and where we are at and who we are among. If that means that I might run into a student at the grocery store than I should take the time to put on jeans instead of pj's. I do think that if the school participates in casual Friday that teachers should be allowed to partake in this as long as they are still demonstrating decency, and respect to others about how they are dressing.
ReplyDeleteOn the issue of tattoos I am on the fence. I have a small rose tattoo with a moon and star on my ankle, I do not think this would be offensive or inappropriate to anyone. However where is the line drawn. I guess you have to treat tattoos the same way you do our dress. The idea that a teacher would walk into a school with a motorcycle jacket as described above is probably unrealistic. I would think that teachers would use sound judgement when it comes to putting something permanent on their bodies as well. If they do not and they have offensive tattoos I think it is perfectly normal to ask them to cover. This is a very good discussion and brings to mind many questions I am sure we all as interns have had throughout our last couple of semesters
I feel like dispositions are very much important. I think how we dress at internship is very important, yeah sometimes getting dressed up may not be as comfortable, but it's professional. I was talking to my Science mentor teacher the other day when we were signing the competence forms and she mentioned she had an intern one time who always wore low cut shirts. That to me is very unprofessional! I feel if we are deciding what to dress in and we are questioning what we are wearing it probably shouldn't be worn. When it comes to tattoos I feel they need to be covered up depending on where they are and what kind of tattoo it is. My Science mentor teacher has a tattoo of a cross on her wrist and she wears a watch on that wrist. I don't see her having a tattoo unprofessional. I don't like tattoos myself, but feel if it is appropriate and the ones that can be covered up are covered up then it's not a big deal. Although I don't agree with having tons of tattoos and not covering them up. I guess I feel if you have one or two and they are appropriate it's not that big of a deal.
ReplyDeleteWhen it comes to clothing outside of school I feel you need to watch what you where. I live in an apartment complex and have seen so many of my students from internship. I also work at our local recreation center as a Day Camp Counselor and we have students come to camp or I see them at the rec center. Now at my job I shouldn't be wearing short shots and a tight shirt. I don't really worry about my dress outside of school very much because most of the time I am either wearing jeans, athletic short and a Fort Hays T-shirt because that seems to be all I own. HAHAHA :-) Bottom line is if you have to question what you wear.....DON"T wear it!
As being a teacher for six years now, I have personal thoughts and experiences regarding disposition. It is very important to consider how we dress, how we carry ourselves, the things we say, how we conduct ourselves in public and through social media. I agree that we should be allowed to wear and show our own personal flair, but we should keep in mind that we are held to a higher standard than most occupations. I would like to see that standard remain high. As far as dressing appropriately is concerned, I think we can all agree that there are plenty of styles we can wear that are professional yet comfortable. Some teaching positions require more comfortable fitting clothing than others, but it should still look professional and not not look like an outfit we would wear to mow the lawn. I think that dressing appropriately goes hand in hand with tatoos, piercings, and what we say and do.
ReplyDeleteSocial media is something that we should definitely think about when we think about disposition. School districts are now looking up their candidates online before they hire and even after they are hired. I absolutely do not personally agree with teachers "friending" their students. It can lead to entirely too much trouble.
All of that being said, I also know we are just human, and we have personal lives and want to live them aside from our jobs. I think we can all expect to run into either parents, students, co-workers or administrators at some point, and they may read our social media posts and pictures. We should just always keep this in mind and adhere to the fact that we are looked up to and have those expectations upon us.
Obviously everyone is going to agree that it is important to maintain yourself professionally. When I am in a school I try to look my best, there are too many educators at my school that really don't dress the part. I was always told that you need to dress for the job you want, not the job you got. That has always been something that I have tried to pride myself upon the last couple of years while working as the ISS supervisor at our middle school. Having said that, I am a coach, and sometimes we have the luxury of dressing down a little bit when our team is going out of town, but if it is a home game, I like to spice it up a bit and wear a suit and tie.
ReplyDeleteI don't go out very often, but when I do I usually dress fairly nice, I don't wear my pj's anywhere, but I will wear Dodge City clothing during the season of the sport in which I am coaching. I don't see anything wrong with wearing a Dodge City Baseball t-shirt to the store, because I am showing support for our school and our program. Most of my closet is filled with DC football, basketball, and baseball clothing so why wouldn't I show it off. I don't think that teachers should have to dress up if they are going to the store on a Saturday afternoon, but I do think you have to make sure you are wearing something appropriate.
As human beings were are judgmental by nature, we judge ourselves as well as those around us. The way we present ourselves is absolutely important. I agree with many of the other posts in saying that it's okay for students to see you in your sweats running errands or going to the gym. I think this makes us more relate-able to the students. If they only saw us in professional dress, they may not feel comfortable opening up in class. Students may be intimidated by persons of authority, so showing students we are just regular people, may ease their nerves.
ReplyDeleteI do believe that anytime you are part of a school function (whether it's a school day or an extra curricular activity) you have to be dressed to impress. I have a very visible tattoo, but I make sure that it is covered any time I am at school.
I live in a very small town and I have witnessed in the past few years more teachers going out and getting plastered at the bars. The main problem with this is, they are doing it with or in front of parents. I have an 8 month old son, so I haven't been out for over a year, but I definitely wouldn't be going out and getting wasted at the bar. I've seen elementary school teachers getting wasted with 21 and 22 year-olds. I know how wrong I think it is, but I can't imagine what an administrator would think!
The harsh reality of becomming a teacher is that educators are set to certain standards, not only by the students that we teach, but also by the community in which we live. In my opinion disposition is extremely important in the field of education. The way we dress and act in public matters a great deal. I also think that if we are doing everyday things, such as running to the store to shop, doing yard work outside, or other such activities it doesn't really matter if we are in sweats. However, if we are involved in a school function or any activity that pertains to the school then in my opinion we have a certain image to uphold. It is important that the students know that we are human beings with lives outside of our careers, but while we are involved with school functions we are a professional and should act and dress accordingly.
ReplyDeleteI went to school in Topeka, a larger city. I do not remember seeing my teachers at the store or around town. However, I now live in a small community and often shop in Topeka. I am active in my son's school district and am a substitute teacher. I see students from the school district all the time at school functions and sporting events. I have even seen some of the students from my internship classrooms at the store or at sporting events. When seen in public, the students are often with parents. If we are not demonstrating the proper dispositions, the parents may wonder what type of individuals are influencing their children. I believe that teachers are often seen as role models for students. Our actions as individuals often speak louder than our words. If we have high expectations and standards for ourselves, they will be seen by our students. I have found myself, when talking to my sons, telling them that I hold myself to the same high standards that I expect of them. When it comes to dress, if we dress like we don't care, our attitude may reflect the same. The way we think affects how we act and how we act affects how we think.
ReplyDeleteI agree, it is different in a larger city versus a smaller city. I live in Topeka now, and never see students from my internships. However, when I lived in Salina and worked as a para I saw students almost everywhere I went. I think you make a good point when you said "parents may wonder what type of individuals are influencing their children." It's important to remember as a teacher you are a role model!
DeleteI understand that we are role models and I do agree that we want students parents to be confident in our ability to teach their child, but I don't feel that it should run our life down to the point of use second guessing if its is ok for use to leave the house without slacks on. Students are only going to be able to relate to use if they don't think we are human too. I'm not saying that we should leave the house with pajama pants and a spaghetti strap shirt on, but I think it is ok to run to the store in (clean) sweat pants, a t-shirt and our hair pulled up in a pony tail. I also don't think that parents will look down on use for this, because they probably wear the same clothes on their days off too. I think its easier for parents to understand when we are dressed down than students, and all you have to tell you students is that you were cleaning house or jogging. Then on Monday morning they are going to feel like they had that personal connection with you that weekend because they know what you did and nobody else does.
DeleteI am not saying that we need to dress professionally all the time. I guess what I was thinking at the time also applies to our behaviors and actions. Students and parents will see us as "real people." I saw one of my internship class students at a track meet a few weeks ago. She was there watching a sibling and I was there watching my son. When I see a student and they are with a parent, I always introduce myself and tell how I know their child.
DeleteAfter reading through the responses I have seen similar view in regards to dispositions. I grew up in a small town where you saw your teachers and school personal at the tanning salon or the grocery store. I did not think any less of my teachers when I saw them without make up and in sweats to go tan. I personally do not feel outside of school how a teacher is dressed effects them as a person. There are going to be times when I am out and about that I am not always going to look the way I do at school because I have a life outside of school. However this does not mean I have going to party in a small town or engage in activities that question me as a person. I guess what I am saying is I draw a line between personal appearance and personal actions outside of the school building. In regards to tattoos and piercings I agree with some statements above that they can be distracting to students. I have a tattoo on each foot. When I am in the school building I make sure I wear a shoe that covers my tattoos or a I have a band aid over them. When I am in the school building I am there to ensure students are focused on learning and not my personal choice of body art.
ReplyDeleteJade, I think you make a great point. There is a difference between personal appearance and personal actions. Like you said I am not going to be going to high school parties and I'm not going to have the crazy information on my Facebook page like others. But I am going to not be scared of leaving my house without makeup on. One example is I don't wear shorts to school. I work in a middle school and everyday I have to tell a girl to change her shorts because they are too short, I always fail to mention to them that I have the exact same pair. I shop in the same section that most of the girls I teach do so I know what they are wearing is in style and in many cases is cute. But the big issue is that it is distracting to the other students (especially to the boys) so they can't be worn at school. This is also true for teachers, tattoos, piercings, and revealing clothes are especially distracting to students, but when I'm out of school and its 102 degrees I'm defiantly wearing my shorts.
DeleteAt my sons' school, there is a first grade teacher who has a large tattoo on his leg that says "READ".
DeleteI do have a question for anyone willing to answer. I have a tattoo on my wrist. I only cover it while I'm at school. Would it be so bad if my student saw it outside of school? Should I try to keep it covered most of the time? I'm not sure what is the proper thing to do in this sense. I don't feel like I should have to cover it when going to the grocery store, gym, or even church (the priest at my church told me it was pretty cool!), so should I cover it if there's a chance of seeing a student?
ReplyDeleteJoAnna, I think this is a very good question, that is in many cases in the grey area of disposition. Let me start off with I have my belly button pierced, 7 piercings in my ears, and a lower back tattoo, not to mention my husband is covered in tattoos and gauged ears. I often wonder the same question, do I look like any less of a professional educator when I'm at the lake in my bikini or out with my husband. My thought is when I am in school you will see no evidence of any of these body modifications. My tattoo and belly ring is always covered and I only wear a few earnings at a time. But if I'm at the lake I'm not going to run and hide, if I see a student (I will cover up though). I had a teacher in middle school that was always at the public swimming pool in her bikini, I remember thinking of her as a confident, beautiful woman,that I could relate to, not as less of a teacher that deserved less respect from the class. I'm also not going to deny that my spouse as my husband just because he isn't professional looking. My thought is as an educator we have to be confident in our choices and our body so that we can teach students the same disposition, even if that means saying to them that we made a choice that we would do differently now or explaining how attitude and education is far more important than looks. To me (which may not be the way others or the teachers think) I would say that when you are not in the classroom it would be ok to have it showing, we are all humans and have lives outside of school. You can't cover it for the rest of your life in every situation, and your only other choice is to get it removed. My thought is when you shake the principles hand at a job interview they are going to see it, if they are not bothered by it than neither should you.
DeleteI guess I'm a little mixed about how I should feel. My first impression of the school my children went to (I home schooled my oldest until 2nd grade) The principal had a suit on with tennis shoes and he had long hair pulled back in a pony tail. The art teacher who also did traffic control was covered in tattoos and has an overwhelming amount of facial hair. The Kindergarten teacher had long hair kept just hanging down shagging. I wouldn't trade them for anything. They are great. First impressions might have thrown me off. I do have a pet peeve, I can't stand lip and tongue rings. They make me stare at their mouths. I just can't help it. First impressions might have made me walk out and not want to take my children there. I think it is important to look appropriate, but I understand diversity, were not cookie cutters. I don't wear dresses or skirts. At the end of the day I've been on the floor working with students hundreds of times, I have marker on me from them and no telling what else from all those sneezes and coughs.
DeleteI understand many of everyone's thoughts and worries about tattoos and piercings. I think we need to remember we all want a job and must hold ourselves to a higher standard than those who have jobs. Several teachers I know have tattoos and don't try too hard to cover them even at school. But like I said, they already have a job. I don't want my tattoo to be the deciding factor of getting a job or not getting a job. So for me, I will cover it happily!
ReplyDeleteDress absolutely matters. Not only does the way you dress affect the way others perceive you, but it affect the way YOU feel too. Think about it. On a Saturday when you are lounging in sweats and a t-shirt, do you feel proud? Do you feel like a leader? Do you feel strong and confident? Probably not. I know that when I take time to look my best, that is exactly how I feel. I feel strong, confident, and proud. When I am professionally dress, my performance is at its best as well. Teachers are held at a higher standard and I believe that is the way it should be. We are responsible for our students as mentors and role models, whether we like it or not, we might be the only stable relationship some students have. I believe that piercings and tattoos fall into a grey area. Unfortunately, there is a sterotype about people with piercings and tattoos. The wrong message could get sent to children. So I feel that if possible tattoos should be covered and piercings should be minimal and in ears only. I really like Dr. Walizer’s example about a doctor that is going to do work on you or your child, would you want them to appear in ripped up, dirty jeans and a stained t-shirt or would you go with the doctor in the 3 piece suit. People who care about the way the look and they way the present themselves, care about their careers too and this includes the education of the children. I think outside of school teacher’s should still be expected to be proper and good community citizens. No one wants to read about their teacher or coach getting a DUI. My dad was a teacher/coach for 40 years and he used to buy beer at the liquor store a the nearby town so kids would not see him buying. Its like if you didn’t see it then it wasn’t happening or something. I don’t know. I think the very young children are so impressionable and should be sheltered as long as possible. We can help by holding ourselves to higher standards, which means being a positive influence in our schools and communities.
ReplyDeleteOn a Saturday morning when I'm lounging in my sweatpants and t-shirt I do feel proud because I made it through my week! I'm a human... and humans wear sweatpants.
DeleteHere is an example of WHAT NOT TO DO: my 6th grade son told me today that his teacher announced (in front of the class) "The only people in this building I will be accepting facebook requests from are from other teachers in the building and my son" appaarently she thinks that it would be OK to be friends with my 6th grade son on facebook is b/c we are moving and she would not be his teacher anymore. Needless to say my son was embarrassed and I now have to confront her and tell her why I think that it is inappropriate for a 20 something to be friends with a 12 year old...
ReplyDeleteI will now be jumping off my soap box, thank you to anyone listening.
There are many posts prior to mine that state differing views on the proper disposition for a teacher. For just a moment I would like to bring to the table all of the influences are students have today. For eight plus hours a day for approximately 165 days a year, our students are influenced by teachers, para's, school cooks, administration and many other people in the school environment. I feel that it is important to let our students see the individuality of each person. Not every child grows up in the same environment, not every child is taught the same beliefs, and not every child bonds with suit and tie attire. Simply put, it takes a village to raise a child and the village will be made up of all different influences. As a teacher, I will make the best choices I feel adequate for my students, my classroom and myself as a person. If criticized by administration, parents, peers or the public, I will be accountable for my actions and decisions. Dispositions are important, but I don't believe that everyone's disposition is the same!
ReplyDeleteMichelle,
DeleteI love your post! I like how you said that students need to see the individuality of each person because not all of them bond with a suit and tie. This is so true. All teachers are different, just like all students are different. We should let them see that we're different and celebrate that. You made some great points!
I think that appearance is very important to people no matter what they say. People say that they do not judge but I do not think that is true. It is human nature to look at someone and think something even if it may be subconscious. I admit I even do it and it is not something I mean to do I just can’t help it. Even today while substituting a class there was another in the class across from I and she was an older lady with a tattoo of a big butterfly on her arm. Right away I thought about how she looked and she had that tattoo showing. I thought of her differently at that moment and not in a bad way just different.
ReplyDeleteI think that impressions that we have on people are very important part of who we are. As a professional educator I think that it is very important that I been seen to others in a professional way because of the status that teachers hold. Teachers are supposed to be role models and if we do not look the part then students, faculty and parents will not take us seriously. I try to present myself in a way that is professional and that I look like a teacher. I have seen a lot of teachers that are wearing clothes that don’t fit or their hair not even combed and they look just like they don’t even care.
Now I think that in my personal time I should be able to wear my fuzzy leopard slippers to the store for milk in the morning if I want to and not be judged but that t=is not the case. Now there is nothing wrong with fuzzy slippers but some people may not think that is appropriate to wear to the store. I feel that it is my personal time and I can appear how I want as long as I don’t care if someone from school see me.
In the end teachers are role models and we have to keep up an appearance that people in others professions may not.
One thing that I want to add on to my original post, is that a lot of times teachers can also be coaches. My husband is a coach and he wears athletic shorts and t-shirts a lot in the evenings and weekends because of practice. I think it's important to look nice during school hours, but our time away from school should be ours and we should be able to dress any way we want. Of course, there is a line that should not be crossed in terms of inappropriate dress, but I think t-shirt, shorts and sweats are ok. Just my opinion....
ReplyDeleteAs much as I would like to be politically correct and say that the way someone dresses (in unprofessional clothing) does not implicate or automatically imply that someone does not take care of himself or herself or is incompetent, however, when I am going to choose a doctor, a babysitter, or a music teacher/coach for my children, I do make inferences on someone’s character or personality, and the only way to do that, initially, is by their appearance, how articulate they are, and their non-verbal communication. As future professional educators, it is important that we play that role of the teacher, which includes the way we dress while we are at school, at after school activities, and keep our personal dress at home. Teachers are role models for students and need to be “modeling” proper or expected behaviors for the students to learn from, especially for students who do not receive these lessons in their home-life!
DeleteAllison,
DeleteI completely agree with your feelings on dispositions and dress. You stated just as I did that we, as teachers, are role models for students. And exactly as you stated...many do not learn these lessons at home; we are their positive example. When a person chooses to become an educator they are taking on a very important role. As an educator, we are now seen under a microscope by students, parents, and colleagues. It is our responsibility to dress appropriately any time we are in public. I definitely do not see anything wrong with wearing shorts, jeans, or t-shirts when one is going to the store. I just know that when one does chose to wear these items then they must be items that would be appropriate for students to see you in. They are learning by your example.
Presenting myself as a professional by the way I dress and by the way I conduct myself is something I take very seriously. I feel that it is important for my students, their parents, and my employers to see me as someone who takes my job seriously and models a behavior that I would expect from my students. I think the way a person dresses really does say something about who they are, and I think it's good to show your own individual style. At the same time, I still think a teacher should look professional and appropriate in the classroom. Away from the school, those same people may see teachers in the community. While I don't think teachers need to look professional all the time, they should still make wise choices about how they present themselves within their community. They do have their own lives outside of work, so it should be expected that they will go to the pool, work out at the gym, or do other activities. As for tattoos & piercings, I have a very personal opinion about them. I don't believe it looks terribly professional to have visible tattoos or piercings the classroom. While these things are becoming more acceptable, I feel that they are not part of a professional image. What a person does on their own time is their business, but I feel that those things can be distracting and should be covered up in the classroom. All that being said, while the way a teacher dresses and whether or not they have tattoos affects their appearance, the most important thing of all is that teachers are good & knowledgeable teachers who do what's best and what's right for their students and their school.
ReplyDeleteI like your last comments because it sums up the whole discussion. "the most important thing of all is that teachers are good and knowledgeable teachers who do what's best and what's right for their students and their school." As a teacher, we are now role models for our students and our district, therefore by dressing in a professional manner is what is best and right for your students and your school.
DeleteDisposition and professionalism in the way I dress at work, I take in consideration. Although I have my days where I am extremely tired, I still follow my schools dress code policy ( I work as para)when I am at work. I live and work in a small community so on the weekends I do see my students. Although I am not in my professional dress, I still look appropriate for public. Regardless if I am wearing shorts and a t shirt, when I go into public I do not wear anything that will harm my reputation. I do not dress up every time I leave my house but still take pride in myself. Like students and their family, I have my own life outside of school. On the weekends I like to be comfortable, and if my student sees me like that I think it shows we are just like everyone else. We should not be judged on the weekends for dressing how we want. I have never had a student say " Ms. Docusen I saw you this weekend and your hair was in a messy bun- you looked weird". The students are just so excited to see you outside of school, and for you to acknowledge their presences.
ReplyDeleteCassy,
DeleteI definately agree with you. If you want to be comfortable as long as you are in appropriate attire than it shouldn't matter.
Cassy,
DeleteI like the point you made that it also teaches students that we are just like them. While I think that students should respect and look up to us as teachers, I also think that they need to understand that we are only human.
Carissa
I think that this is an interesting example and topic. To a certain extent I agree that teachers need to always hold a professional role but if you go to the grocery store in your pjs to grab donuts and a student sees you what is the big deal? I know everyone will think I am going to be a horrible teacher for saying this but we are human and what in the world is wrong with going to the grocery store in your pjs? Now I was speaking with a teacher and she was telling me she had a friend that was a teacher in a small town and she really struggles because she can't just do what she wants to do. Her example was that she couldn't sit in her driveway with friends and have a beer because she was fearful of a student or parent seeing her. Well in this scenario I don't think it would be appropriate for a student to see their teacher drinking. I think that a teacher should always hold a professional look in anything school related but if they want to where pjs to the grocery store to get donuts I don't think they should be looked down apon.
ReplyDeleteIt is funny that you ask this question because I have recently had a discussion with my principal on these same issues, which I will mention later. As far as professional dress, yes, it is very important in how you present yourself to your students, parents and other staff members. The question is, do you want them to take you serious, then you must dress the part. When you are away from school, I do believe you have your own life, but you still represent the school district. I know teachers that have been fired for inappropriate behavior on the weekends and after school. You are now a role model to every student that walks through your door, during school or after school hours. I can say I have gone to the store without makeup on, but it is my choice not to go in my pajamas. Personally, I would not wear my pajamas to the store because it reminds me of some of the parents I work with at my school, and that may not necessarily be a good thing! When it comes to tattoos and piercings, I am against it if they are a distraction to the class. As long as your tattoo is covered, having one is your choice. The piercings are a little different. As a professional, I do not think you should have piercings from your nose, eyebrow, tongue, etc. In fact, they are not allowed in our school district. Now, back to the conversation I had with my principal. We were discussing job opportunities as a teacher in his building. It is a title 1, inner-city school. I have been there 4 years and this is his first year in a title school. He felt that I belonged better in a non-title school because of my appearance. This is the first time I can say that I was told that I would not be good for a job because of the way I dressed. Anyway, I had a very long discussion with him and he learned that you should get to know someone before you judge them on just their clothes. This brings me to the point I wanted to make. Your clothes represent who you are and people judge you by your appearance whether you like it or not. A teacher is a professional, so therefore they should dress and conduct themselves in that manner.
ReplyDeleteI think that this is an amazing topic to pick to discuss. I am glad that not everyone is just agreeing to agree on this topic. I feel that the way we dress really does matter to the students. I have worked in a school setting for the last 7 years, and I hate walking down the hall and seeing a fellow coworker in sweats and a t-shirt. I feel that the students look to us as role models and should see that we take pride in ourselves everyday that we go to work. I think by dressing up it will show that we really do care about our job, and our students. I am a little torn on the tattoos question. My reasoning for this is I do have 2 tattoos that are visible to my students. I do gladly share my reasoning’s to my students for having these two tattoos and how they are very important to me. Most of the responses I get from my students are wow they really are special to you. I also have a lot of piercings and choose to take them out when I attended my internships; this was all just a choice for me. I feel that there is a time and a place for piercings and my opinion is when you are being a role model, this is not the time. I do live in a very small community and run into many of my past students on a daily basis at the store, post office and so on. I will be the first to admit that I love staying in my PJ’s and wearing my favorite rain boots out in public. However, I do always look appropriate when I leave my house, I guess that I just figure my 2 days off I can lounge. When attending after school events I do not dress up but I do take pride in myself and look appropriate for the occasion.
ReplyDeleteI think that this is an amazing topic to pick to discuss. I am glad that not everyone is just agreeing to agree on this topic. I feel that the way we dress really does matter to the students. I have worked in a school setting for the last 7 years, and I hate walking down the hall and seeing a fellow coworker in sweats and a t-shirt. I feel that the students look to us as role models and should see that we take pride in ourselves everyday that we go to work. I think by dressing up it will show that we really do care about our job, and our students. I am a little torn on the tattoos question. My reasoning for this is I do have 2 tattoos that are visible to my students. I do gladly share my reasoning’s to my students for having these two tattoos and how they are very important to me. Most of the responses I get from my students are wow they really are special to you. I also have a lot of piercings and choose to take them out when I attended my internships; this was all just a choice for me. I feel that there is a time and a place for piercings and my opinion is when you are being a role model, this is not the time. I do live in a very small community and run into many of my past students on a daily basis at the store, post office and so on. I will be the first to admit that I love staying in my PJ’s and wearing my favorite rain boots out in public. However, I do always look appropriate when I leave my house, I guess that I just figure my 2 days off I can lounge. When attending after school events I do not dress up but I do take pride in myself and look appropriate for the occasion.
ReplyDeleteWOW. Didn't realize I was opening such a hot topic here. I have loved reading these and it gives me another great way to know YOU - my students. Your personalities, your interests, your beliefs. All of which make us who we are. Just as tattoos or piercings or clothes make us who we are.
ReplyDeleteI want to tell you a small story and I hope you will read it. I was going for a run one afternoon last summer. I met a homeless person walking his bicycle down the street so I stopped to talk with him. He was very "shy." I asked where he was from and where he was headed. He was from Hutch and headed to the northwest. Said he wanted to get to Washington state. Damn. That is a long way to travel on a bike. At any rate. His bike was loaded with all his belongings. Clothing and a few other necessities. His hair was untrimmed, his beard was long. His clothes were filthy. He smelled. etc.
I noticed his bike tire was flat. Obviously the reason he was walking and not riding. My home was a few blocks back so I offered to air up his tires so he could be on his way. He hesitantly agreed so we proceeded to walk back to my house. We get to my house and I said to him, "just push your bike up into my garage and I will plug in my air compressor to air up the tire." Do you know what he said in response?
He said, "I will just stay in the sidewalk. Will your air hose reach out here?" I said, "sure no problem." I aired up his tires and got him some trash bags to keep his clothes dry if it were to rain. Offered him some food but he declined. Then I never saw him again.
As I thought about this encounter later I realized that HE was the one afraid of being robbed or hurt by ME. Here is a man who had all his belongings on a bicycle and he was afraid that if I took him into my garage that I would harm him or rob him.
Wow, what an eye opener for me. Isn't it you and I who typically think of people such as this man who would burglarize us or harm us? And we always try to tell our kids to avoid strangers etc.??? (which is a good thing, don't get me wrong. WE need to keep our families and loved ones safe because you never know.) But many people shun the homeless or needy because we fear they will harm us based on the way they look.
Our clothes don't make us who we are do they? I have tattoos also. I wear shorts and a tshirt to the store. I work in my yard, I get dirty, I go to the gas station for a soda, I see some of my students. What does all of this mean? Do my students all of a sudden think, "damn Splichal is a slob and he is a druggy because he has tattoos and had red eyes today"
I go to my farm and cut trees or build fence and I look like a pathetic mess afterwards all sweaty and dirty and grimy. I'll drink some beer while I'm at the farm. I will help Konnor de-hook a fish. We'll shoot guns. We will blow stuff up. We will get a little crazy at times. Am I still Kevin Splichal, FHSU instructor or all of a sudden am I "country redneck hick" Kevin Splichal? Hmmmm hahaha
My point is this. Our actions define who we are in this life. When we pass away, what will our students remember us for? I firmly believe it is the impact we have in their lives no matter if we are homeless or millionaires. Regardless of the discussions above, my hope for you is that you will be a positive influence on your students. Make an impact. Kevin
Kevin,
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your thoughts on disposition as well, or at least giving us something to ponder on. I enjoyed the story about the homeless man. It takes a good person to do something like that! Carissa Williams
I agree with Carissa, it takes a very special person to take the time to get to know and learn about this man. I cannot imagine how many people shunned him based on his appearance. I am sure that you taking that time made a difference in his life as well!!
ReplyDeleteAwesome story! It's what we do, not what we say! It's who we are on the inside that really matters. Never judge a book by it's cover!
ReplyDeleteI have really enjoyed this Blog and actually taking the time and reading each of my peer's responses. I really enjoyed reading Mr. Spliachal's experience as well, it goes to show everyone faces different struggles throughout their life. As far as dispositions go, I believe it is very important to look professional in the education field. I have worked at a school district the last four years and this topic can definitely been seen throughout the hallways. If anyone was to walk down the hallways and see a teacher dressed in sweats and a t-shirt I believe we would all have the same reaction. I believe it is important to dress professionally but people need to remember teachers are just regular people outside of the school hallways. Seeing a teacher in pj's at the post office on a Saturday morning should not be a shock to students, but I am sure it would be if you seen your teacher dress this way. As far as tattoos goes, I understand why this is a very controversial topic. I have two tattoos but they are only visible if I make them, they are on my feet. I do not have a problem with tattoos so I guess you could call me bias to this topic. I do not believe tattoos should judge whether you are an effective teacher or not but sadly, they are stereotyped.
ReplyDeleteI have a last little bit of insight on this. Currently I work in retail management and am responsible for the hiring at a small, but national retail store. Appearance definitely sets the tone for an interview and gives a great or not so great first impression. I am still surprised when people show up for interviews in jeans and t-shirts. However, I've learned this is unfortunately pretty common. However, as I mentioned before, this is a retail environment not a professional environment. We wouldn't not hire someone solely based on how they are dressed, but those who do dress up for interviews and bring resumes do seem like better candidates because they've put in more effort. I guess where I am going with this, is that it is much harder for someone to overcome a bad first impression than to just set the right first impression in the first place!
ReplyDeleteAlso, I'm not sure if anyone has mentioned this or not...
But there's been a lot of discussion about running into students/parents of students at the grocery store. However, what if you went to an interview and then later that week ran into the principal of the school you interviewed at... and you were in your pajama's? Regardless of how professional you were in the interview, don't you think they'd possibly have second thoughts about you representing their school?
Kevin I really like your story of the homeless man. People tend to judge a person by what they wear and by appearance. I believe that it is important for students to know that teachers are just people to....not superheros that are always perfect. However, I also try to dress appropriately when I am out in public. I work as a paraprofessional at a elementary school. I don't wear pj's to the store but I do wear shorts in the summer and my tattoo shows. If I run into a student and they ask about it I am honest and tell them it hurt. I have a rose vine around my ankle with my son's initials and my cousins initials because he died on my birthday. I believe as an educator one must dress appropriately (cover up certain areas) most of the time. I think it's OK teachers wear workout cloths to the store or work in their yard. If a students sees this it shows them that their teacher works hard outside of the classroom too.
ReplyDeleteI really think that in the school or at your job your dress absolutely matters. You really don't get a second chance to make a first impression and often times the first impression you give is how you look. I wear my hair a little longer and no matter how much I try to comb it or groom it, it always has a bit of an uncombed, wild look to it. This is something that I'm self conscious about because it can give the appearance that I'm not image conscious.
ReplyDeleteYour disposition absolutely matters during the times you interact with your students. What you do on the weekends shouldn't matter as much as long as it doesn't have an ill effect on your reputation with students and your ability to have their respect. You can't control if you see students on a weekend at the store so being yourself and dressing how you would dress is perfectly acceptable as long as you can still look your students in the eye and have their respect on Monday.