Early teachers were subject to strict rules and regulations. Below is a contract for
a teacher in the neighboring county of Ottawa. Jasper County teachers would have
been subject to a similar contract.
Teaching Contract, Miami, Oklahoma 1923
Not to get married. This contract becomes null and void immediately if the teacher marries.
Not to keep company with men.
To be home between the hours of 8 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Not to loiter downtown in ice cream stores.
Not to leave town at any time without permission of the chairman of the Board of Trustees.
Not to smoke cigarettes. Contract becomes null and void immediately if teacher is found smoking.
Not to drink beer, wine or whiskey.
Not to ride in a carriage or automobile with any man except her brother or father.
Not to dress in bright colors.
Not to dye hair.
Wear at least two petticoats.
Not to wear dresses more than two inches about the ankle.
Keep school room clean. Sweep classroom floor daily. Scrub floor once weekly with hot water
and soap. Clean the blackboard daily. Start the fire at 7 a.m.
Not to use face powder, mascara or paint lips.
Salary 75.00 per month.
Source: The Webb City Area Genealogy Society Newsletter, April 1994, issue 4, volume 2.
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