As a concerned parent, I recently attended a school meeting where I was taken aback by the attire of one of the teachers. This teacher was wearing a very low cut top, an extremely short and tight mini skirt with a deep split, and had heavily applied makeup including long false eyelashes and nails. This is not the image that we want our children to perceive as professional or appropriate.

Our children are expected to adhere to strict dress codes in schools. My own daughter has been reprimanded for her black school trousers being slightly tighter than deemed acceptable. It is only fair that teaching staff should also be held to similar standards.

According to research conducted by the National Education Association, educators' appearance has an impact on their perceived credibility among students (NEA 2015). The way teachers present themselves can influence how students view them as role models and authority figures.

Therefore, we call upon all schools nationwide to implement and enforce professional dress codes for their teaching staff. We believe this will promote an environment conducive for learning while setting positive examples for our young adults about appropriate work attire.

We urge you - parents, educators, administrators - sign this petition today! Let's ensure our children have role models who reflect professionalism in every aspect of their roles including their attire.