Social Studies Teacher Jeff Patrick

For some people, getting dressed everyday is solely about fashion. For history and economics teacher Jeff Patrick, however, it’s about changing into a teaching mindset before going to work.

Patrick is known for his classic combination of colored shirts and ties, which are central to setting his professional attitude for the day. “Part of changing into a shirt and tie is changing my mindset and getting ready to teach,” he said. “Even on the days I bike to school, I bring a change of clothes with me. It’s not a requirement—I could teach in my biking gear if I wanted, but it is more for my benefit of getting into that mental mindset and being ready.”

Some of Patrick’s ties also hold sentimental value to him, especially if they were gifts from students. “I still have the tie gifted from the class that I did my student teaching for,” he said. “It is around 20 years old at this point.”

Depending on the weather outside, Patrick may also change up the style of his outfits. “It kind of goes by season in the beginning of the school year,” he said. “In August and September, I’m usually wearing shirts and ties, and in the winter, I’ll often transition to sweaters.”