Act ethically and according to professional norms to promote each student’s academic success and well-being. Educational leaders are professionals who ensure personnel are equipped with professional understanding of the school’s mission and the professional norms that must be followed to ensure student success and well-being. Leaders have an understanding of ethical principles to guide actions and decision-making, which must be within the boundaries of professional practice. Leaders foster the development of a school culture that nurtures understanding of professional conduct and ethics, and have a professional responsibility to take an intentional approach to ensure not only regulatory enforcement, but also ethics education, outreach, and prevention. Effective leaders:
Act ethically and professionally in personal conduct, relationships with others, decision-making, stewardship of the school’s resources, and all aspects of school leadership.
Act according to and promote the professional norms of integrity, fairness, transparency, trust, collaboration, perseverance, learning, and continuous improvement.
Place children at the center of education and accept responsibility for each student’s academic success and well-being.
Safeguard and promote the values of democracy, individual freedom and responsibility, equity, social justice, community, and diversity.
Lead with interpersonal and communication skill, social-emotional insight, and understanding of all students’ and staff members’ backgrounds and cultures.
Provide moral direction for the school and promote ethical and professional behavior among faculty and staff.
I will lead with integrity and expect the same from my team. By modeling professionalism, fairness, and consistency, I plan to set a tone where responsibility and high standards are the norm. My leadership will focus on building trust and encouraging others to make choices rooted in what is best for learners. Upholding strong ethics will help create a culture of excellence and respect.
Participating in Level Up Fulton strengthened my commitment to ethical leadership by engaging me in collaborative learning with other school leaders focused on equity, excellence, and student-centered practices. I learned to make decisions that are not only data-driven but grounded in what is best for all students, especially those in underserved communities. The program encouraged reflection on my own leadership style and how I model integrity and fairness in daily interactions. It reaffirmed my belief that high ethical standards and accountability are non-negotiable in leading a school community.
Serving as an AP Reader has deepened my appreciation for fairness, consistency, and high academic standards. In evaluating student work from across the country, I was reminded of the importance of unbiased assessment and the ethical responsibility leaders have in upholding academic integrity. It reinforced my role in promoting rigorous instruction while ensuring that every student is evaluated equitably. This experience allows me to model professionalism and advocate for instructional practices that maintain high expectations for all learners.
Project Zero Classroom expanded my understanding of how to nurture thoughtful, ethical learners by emphasizing thinking routines, reflection, and cultural awareness. I apply these practices in my leadership by encouraging staff to foster classrooms where students’ ideas are respected and their thinking is made visible. This work has helped me lead in a way that values student voice and promotes ethical reasoning across disciplines. It aligns with my belief that leadership is not just about performance, but about developing thoughtful citizens who contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Completing the CITI Program’s Basic Course deepened my awareness of ethical considerations in research and educational practice. I gained insights into confidentiality, informed consent, and responsible data use, which are essential in maintaining trust and transparency in schools. This training reminds me of my duty to protect student rights while making evidence-based decisions. It supports my goal of modeling ethical conduct and fostering a school culture rooted in respect, responsibility, and professional integrity.