Educational Professionalism

March 26, 2008

    Any discussion of professionalism in education at any level must begin with an acceptance of the core values to which teachers have long been committed to. I know that teachers realize that children come to us as part of a family and a community with individual worth and uniqueness. It is our job to help those children reach their potential in a classroom that provides a safe environment. I believe that each child comes to school trusting that the work he or she is about to undertake is important and will help them become more educated and a better member of society. I know that the lessons we undertake with children need to be based on sound theories of child development and must support family ties. Finally, I realize that teachers do not operate within a vacuum but must constantly align their lessons to children, their families, other colleagues, and the community in general.

I believe that part of professionalism is feeling an ethical responsibility to keep our children safe and healthy in a nurturing environment. It is important to realize that children are vulnerable and trusting individuals. All children, especially children with disabilities need to be included in all activities of all classes. I know it my job to advocate for all children to find the most appropriate placement for each child. It is alarming to hear of an educator in the media taking advantage of the sacred trust that the community has placed in our hands. I should never involve myself in any activity that harms, degrades, damages, or segregates children of any basis. I realize that part of my responsibility is to familiarize myself with not only the curriculum but also the symptoms of any form of child abuse. I know I need to understand all state laws and reporting regulations within my state. I further understand that when a person or a child tells me that there is a suspicion of abuse or neglect, then I am obligated to follow up. Furthermore, if I would become aware of a situation that had placed one of my students in any harm, it is my responsibility to inform the appropriate authorities to protect that child.

I am also aware that the child is a part of a family and I need to work to develop a positive relationship with that family. Just as a child is unique, a family is unique with its own customs and rules. I need to be supportive of the family just as I expect that family to support me in the education of that child. Communication with parents is paramount to avoid problems.

I understand that occasionally a family member may with to visit my classroom or program and I welcome that visit. It is important that families know of any change within school policy or my own qualifications to teach whatever subject we are undertaking. I want to involve families in policy decisions when appropriate, especially if they affect that child. It is my responsibility to inform appropriate authorities and families when children have been exposed to any disease or emotional stress. I know that there is a need for confidentiality and that I need to respect a family and student’s privacy and that child’s records.

I am aware that a teacher needs to maintain high ideals and principals when dealing with coworkers, employers, and all staff members. I do expect to be involved in meetings and professional development and conduct myself in a professional manner. I realize that as a teacher I represent my school and staff when out in the community and I need to conduct myself in a way which would not diminish the reputation of my school. As a community member, I expect to be called upon to volunteer my time when it benefits my students or my school and I want to conduct myself in an honest and above board manner. Finally, I realize that violations of the trust that has been placed in me may lead to a dismissal or other circumstances.

When a teacher maintains a professional standard of conduct in or outside of his or her classroom, a standard of expectation exists in that community. Having established this standard of expectation, a teacher is viewed as a trusted member of a school team. That means in essence that students, parents, coworkers, and employers will readily place their trust in me that I will respond with appropriate demeanor and control in any situation. I should be relied upon to function in place of parents and guide children throughout the day in a positive, caring environment. Having a uniform code of conduct tells the community what it should and can expect from each educator.

Each schools staff member is an integral part of a team. Whether that member is a smiling cafeteria worker, a patient janitor, a traveling physical education or music teacher, or an overworked secretary, each is interrelated and interdependent in the well being of all children. No classroom teacher could get this job done without the constant help and assistance from a team of caring individuals. Occasionally a teacher may find herself volunteering her time in an after school activity in which she is a leader of a group of students outside of the classroom. That teacher should still be accounted upon to conduct herself appropriately and abide by the professional code of conduct put in place for her time in the classroom. She may find herself interacting with inquisitive parents who are not aware of confidentially and mandated reporter responsibilities of teachers. Diplomacy is a positive trait for any teacher in a teamwork environment.