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.
Keywords teacher dress norms, values, rationale, school culture, school policy
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