LAUDERDALE LAKES — Two hundred-fifty students at Boyd H. Anderson High School are trading T-shirts and jeans for business attire two days a week as part of the school’s “Dress for Respect” program.
The students, who are members of the Mentoring Tomorrow’s Leaders program, voluntarily agreed to “Dress for Respect.”
Boyd Anderson Principal Angel B. Almanzar says the goal of the program is to help students learn that “people’s presentation can affect how they feel about themselves and how others perceive them.”
In May, Almanzar sought the support of community members by asking for the donation of new or gently worn professional clothing for his students.
The response was overwhelming. For example, community member Steve Wasserman personally solicited donations from 15 local businesses and the Broward Sheriff’s Office collected more than 1,000 pounds of professional clothing.
It also has been noted that dressing professionally can foster a professional learning environment while in school, and can impact students’ future success in applying for jobs and preparing for interviews.
Teacher Marie Duperval said the program “gives the students the ability to look professional, gain self-confidence and self-esteem. Knowing that they look good, makes them feel good about who they are and what they represent.”
Student Government Association President Eddie Oliver Jr. describes the initiative by saying “When you dress for respect, you are showing to others that you respect yourself. In turn, they will respect you.”
*Pictured above is Boyd Anderson Principal Angel B. Almanzar
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