Rationales and Norms for Teacher Dress Codes: A Review of Employee Handbooks

Abstract

The research question was “What dress norms and related rationales are found in teacher dress policies?” Data were 102 school employee handbooks. Eighty-two handbooks (80.4%) provided one or more rationale, most frequently being “To project a positive image in the community” ( n = 56). Dress norms, categorized as broad and itemized, were determined to positively and negatively affect the learning environment. Findings can provide school administrations with the components of a clear teacher dress code policy.