A Dress Code for Virtual School?

Right downstate here in Illinois, Springfield Public Schools have implemented a strict dress code — even though this fall’s classes will be held online.

The district has banned at-home students from wearing hoodies, sunglasses, bandanas and pajamas while attending virtual classes. “The expectation is that the dress code is upheld,” says Jason Wind, Springfield’s director of school support. “We don’t need students in pajamas and all those other things while on their Zoom conferences.” Students are also expected to be out of bed and sitting at a table or desk, Wind says.

Not everyone is on board with the dress code. A number of parents are backing their kids, saying there’s no reason for students to have to get dressed and ready just to sit at home. “I don’t really see how any district can come in and say what my kid can’t wear in my house,” says parent Elizabeth Ballinger. “I don’t think they have any right to say what happens in my house. I think they have enough to worry about as opposed to what the kids are wearing. They need to make sure they’re getting educated.”

As far as I’m concerned, dressing a certain way puts you in the mood for work.  Even if you weren’t being seen on camera, it affects your attitude.  So students, even if you’re at home, I’m going to stand with those against you “lookin’ like a fool with your pants on the ground.”