E3 – Exemplify an understanding of professional responsibilities and policies.
Teacher candidates demonstrate knowledge of professional, legal, and ethical responsibilities and policies.
In my own understanding, HOPE Principle E3 is the teachers understanding and application of responsibilities and policies enlisted for all educators. Teachers should demonstrate an understanding of their professional, legal and ethical responsibilities and policies in the state they are teaching in. In my internship thus far, I have shown an understanding of professional responsibilities and policies by striving to create a learning environment that supports the fulfillment of all students, and ensured that every student receives the same amount of access to classroom material and resources. In addition, I have constantly reflected on feedback provided to me by professionals who have shown mastery in the field such as my mentor teachers, my school principle, and field supervisor. As evidence, I have attached written feedback by one of my mentor teachers in a recent literacy lesson. I have also attached the most recent observation commentary provided written by my field supervisor for a math and writing lesson (Evaluation 7 & 8).
The Association of American Educators (AAE) has listed four principles of ethical conduct in which every teacher should be familiar with. In the first principle, Ethical Conduct towards Students, AAE states “The professional educator accepts personal responsibility for teaching students character qualities that will help the evaluate the consequences of and accept the responsibility for their actions and choices.” Teachers need to not only show success by the progress of each student but also as a citizen of the greater community of the republic. Principles two and three, Ethical Conduct toward Practices and Professional Colleagues, both emphasize the teacher’s ability to present themselves in a professional manner. Teachers need to be honest and show equitable treatment of all members of the profession. Lastly, Ethical Conduct Parents and Community explains how teachers should respect values and traditions, especially those of diverse cultures, represented in the classroom, school, and community. The five principles AAE listed are expectations all teachers need to abide and demonstrate understanding of their professional responsibilities and policies (Association of American Educators).
It is important for teachers to act with conscientious effort to exemplify highest ethical standards. This allows for teachers to gain an awareness that will aid their service to students. When teachers are fully informed of their roles, professionalism can be expected at every level. In an effort to always be up to date with professional responsibilities and policies, I plan to continue to seek professional development throughout my teaching experience. I will seek feedback from mentors, colleagues, parents and community members in order to remain competent in the field. This will allow me to be fully informed of my role as a teacher.
Association of American Educators (AAE). Code of Ethics for Educators. (n.d.). Retrieved May 9, 2015, from http://www.aaeteachers.org/index.php/about-us/aae-code-of-ethics.