Words of Wisdom #2

Write things down- Keep a yearly Journal

From everything to a quick recap of phone conversations, to how you handled a discipline situation, write it down with the date and time. This can be very helpful as a reference.

I've used mine as a diary at times. Most of the time I'm so swamped that I just jot down major things that happen instead. It really depends on the current flow. Right now, I'm jotting things down quickly, in shorthand. A very busy time of year for me.

I do use it as a discipline record as well. I just quickly recap what happened and what I did. Of course every year is different as far as students too. This year I've had very little to write about in that regard.

Words of Wisdom #1

Have an imaginary line around your desk.

I have an imaginary line that they sometimes forget about. I call it my office when they step across the line. I'll say with a smile "I see that you stepped into my office. I don't remember hearing you knock."

Students need to raise their hand to leave their seat in my room. I allow them to do this most of the time, as long as they ask.


There's also a big rule that nobody touches my desk. The things on my desk on mine, and anything they need isn't on my desk.


If I didn't have this rule, I can expect students coming up for every possible thing from being teased to not having supplies.

Are school dress codes fair?

Strictly referring to school - Are dress codes fair?

I've taught for quite a few years now, and from a personal standpoint, I was quite glad when my school revamped the dress code. It's not so strict as to insist on uniforms for students, but it still is detailed enough to counteract some risque styles.

I teach at an elementary school. I believe things should be enforced to a point even more consistently at the high school level.

There's a point when a line has to be drawn, and I still would imagine that in many schools, the dress codes are still pretty lenient.

Here is what our dress code states:

9.12 Student Dress Code
Students attending the XXXXXX XXXXXXXX School are expected to conform to the following dress regulations:
1. Items of dress will be worn that are no shorter than fingertip length when standing with hands to one's side.
2. Boxer shorts, sleeper lounge pants, cut-offs or frayed hems will not be allowed.
3. Spandex clinging or skintight clothing will not be allowed.
4. Shoes must be worn at all time.
5. Mesh shirts or tank tops may only be worn under or over an acceptable shirt, blouse, or sweater.
6. Shirts must be long enough to cover the stomach area.
7. If pants are too large to remain at the waist area, a belt must be provided.
8. Garments with holes will not be allowed.
9. All clothing should be in good taste. Clothing with obscenities, cigarettes, drug information or sexual connotations will not be allowed.
10. Hat will not be worn indoors except by special permission.

Now, what exactly is the purpose of a dress code? The primary reason for being in school is to learn. Some items of dress are a distraction and may hinder the learning process.

If a teenage boy is sitting in class studying the history of Ancient Rome and the girl next to him is wearing a skimpy outfit, what do you think will dominate his attention? There's virtually no way history can compete.

If you are having issues with this topic in your school district, talk to a school board member, teacher, principal, or maybe even write a short letter to the editor of the local newspaper.

I try to eliminate distractions from my sixth grade room. The clothing today's youth wear can take away from learning. I feel that a specific dress code is becoming an essential step schools must take to keep their students learning.

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