Dress Code Policy Lesson: How to Dress for Success

Learning Targets:

In this lesson students will learn:

1. What our district or school dress code is and why it matters.

2. How to dress for success at school and in your professional industry.

Introduction

When they hear the words "dress code", some students (and even some adults) often feel that they are being forced to limit their self-expression or conform to a standard for no apparent reason. The truth is, dress codes help establish many important aspects of our educational and professional environment for the purpose of maintaining the safety, security, and focus of the tasks at hand. So what exactly is our district or school dress code and why does it matter so much? How can you dress for success at school and at your job?

Activities

In this first activity, we will look at our district's official dress code policy:

SAUSD_DRESS_CODE_POLICIES.docx

In this second activity, we will look at a short video on how to dress for success in the workplace:

How to Dress for Success

Discussion

With a partner or in small groups, discuss the following:

1. What dress code policy rules surprised you? Why do you think each of these policies are included (what purpose do they serve)?

2. How does our district or school dress code support our mission to provide a safe place for learning?

3. What does it mean to "dress for success"? What are some tips for dressing for success?

4. Do a quick internet search on workplace-appropriate clothing for the industry that your CTE class is in. Is there a uniform or implied dress code?

Closure

Dress codes may seem "mean" and old-fashioned, but they serve a very important purpose in our schools, jobs, and communities. When we need help at Target or Best Buy, their professional uniform helps us identify who works there; a carpenter's dress code helps them carry the tools they need for the job and protects them from getting hurt while working; a mechanic's uniform helps protect their regular clothing from the dirt and oil they encounter as part of their job; a doctor's scrubs or lab coat helps to protect them from the various fluids and chemicals that they come into contact with as they help their patients. Although school dress codes might feel oppressive or silly at times, they serve the purpose of ensuring that everyone can learn in a safe environment and free from distractions.