THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Wednesday, January 4, 1995 TAG: 9501040006
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A14 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 38 lines
After reading Marc Tibbs' article ``Ruffner guidelines take `dress for success' to excess'' (Dec. 22), I respectfully submit a contrary view.
I think we will all agree that the type of work we do is related to what we wear. Obviously, some jobs require explicit uniforms; others require durable warm clothing; others require athletic padding; and so on.
After teaching in high schools and at Old Dominion University for a total of 25 years, I say that Mrs. Hoffler-Riddick, principal of Ruffner Middle School, and a majority of the faculty members are absolutely correct concerning the dress guidelines.
Students are exposed to teachers 25 percent of the students' waking hours. Teachers are role models for students. Also, teachers - leaders, supervisors, friends or adversaries (however we classify them) - should have respect. Clothing, as many studies have shown, is one important factor in this process.
It has been my experience that teachers are usually independent thinkers and are a dedicated lot. When they first enter the profession, a few tend to dress in very casual clothing. However, as they mature or advance in the system, they most frequently become more formal in their attire. Very few doctors, lawyers or other groups claiming to be ``professionals,'' who work in comfortable environments, dress casually on the job.
The administration and teachers at Ruffner Middle School are right on target.
HARRY H. SCHMOELE JR.
Norfolk, Dec. 22, 1994 by CNB