Educators act ethically and maintain the integrity, credibility and reputation of the profession.
Standard 2 is something I have been inadvertently practicing throughout the program and especially during practicum experiences. It is extremely important to remain professional inside and outside the classroom in order to protect the privacy of the students and school. I have learned throughout this process from our professors what language to use and how to address or discuss students in a confidential and respectful manner. When summarizing practicum 490 with my cohort group, I was extremely careful with the details I provided from my experience. As an educator, it is important to uphold, maintain, and practice the expected standards within the profession. Even more so because we are working with a vulnerable population.
Throughout practicum 490, I found myself in situations where I needed to make an ethical decision and figure out what that would look like going forward. Fortunately, I was always able to confidentially confide in my coaching teacher for their support on such decisions. Within practicum 490, I also had the privilege of attending two student I.E.P (Individualized Education Plan) team meetings. These meetings were extremely insightful in the decision making, planning, discussion and preparation that goes into creating an I.E.P. It also showed me what the teacher’s role is when creating a student I.E.P. I recognize it was a privilege to attend these meetings and the information shared with me was confidential and protected. I was sure to ask the school principal, vice principal and school team if my attendance in these meetings was okay. Having exposure to these experiences allowed me to practice and implement standard two within my own professional practice and pedagogy.
I have encountered certain scenarios in the staff room where students are being discussed at large. When this occurs, I have removed myself from the situation because it is not information for me to hear nor do I want to be a part of it. I only discuss aspects of my personal life that I would like to share in the staff room that do not involve my work as an educator. We need to always be aware of who and what we speak of and where inside and outside the school building. It is important not to insert your own personal biases or beliefs within the profession and to make ethical decisions for the student body. Having a standard of ethics means that others interests are always taken into consideration when making decisions. I vow to uphold these professional standards and always practice fairness, honesty, integrity and maintain credibility as an educator.