Are you ready to Step to the Mark?

As educators, we know what it is like to be faced with a multitude of decisions every day.  We often find ourselves making these decisions alone.  Remember, codes of ethics are just a starting point.  They don't tell us what to do, but when included in collegial conversations, we can best determine the appropriate pathways to navigate the complexities of our profession.  Following a strict code of ethics ensures that students receive a fair, honest, and uncompromising education.  

Stepping up to the mark means that you WILL:

• be more aware of not only your actions and decision-making, but how you can assist your colleagues as well.

• exemplify behaviors that demonstrates impartiality, dignity and integrity of the profession.

• foster healthy relationships with students, colleagues, parents and the school community.

• be cognitive that your professional responsibilities not only include fulfilling your contract and following all school policies, but also promoting an environment that is safe, secure, and accepting of all that fosters learning and growth. 

• be attentive to continuing education requirements and career development by continued self-reflect, spend time researching new teaching methods , stay informed on technical advancements for the classroom and participate in curriculum improvements. 

• be more aware of your position as an educator in the community so you will be more attentive to represent yourself in a manner that honors your profession.

Awareness of the ethics codes is crucial, but the formal standards are not a substitute for an active, deliberative and creative approach to fulfilling our ethical responsibilities.  They prompt, guide, and inform our ethical consideration.  In professional ethics, the solution ALWAYS resides with the practitioners - US- through our willingness to engage in our professional practice through honest personal reflections and supportive collegial conversations.  We are not alone, we have guides, and we have each other!