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School Dress Code for teachers or students in Massachusetts

Submitted by mgr. on Thu, 12/15/2011 - 09:27
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Wondering if MA schools have a dress code policy in place for the teachers. My child attends K-3 elementary school and his gym teacher wears a lip-piercing ring. I would think there should be a policy for the teachers regarding proper dress and piercings. A teacher should be a mentor and should set an example, in this case the teacher is a male gym teacher. I would think such piercings would have to be unnoticeable in the school atmosphere. Any input on this subject would be appreciated.

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School dress code

Submitted by The Editor on Thu, 12/15/2011 - 10:48.

I am not aware of any Massachusetts law that regulates or creates a dress code for public school teachers.  I suspect that the matter is covered on the local level, town by town, either in the contract between the districts and the teachers or on a school by school basis. FYI, under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 71, Section 83, school officials may not “abridge the rights of students as to personal dress and appearance” by imposing dress codes unless the outfit in question “violates reasonable standards of health, safety, and cleanliness.”  I suspect that, if any dress code were adopted for teachers, similar issues would have to be wrestled with. 

Dress Code

Submitted by mgr. on Thu, 12/15/2011 - 13:55.

Thank you for your input...I believe these days certain policies need updating to keep up with the changes. I totally disagree with the lip piercing and a K3 grade though.

Happy Holiday's
Pam

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