Codes of ethics vary according to profession.

A code of ethics specifically for the

teaching profession is vital. In the teaching profession there is no explicit right or

wrong. In the classroom we have discussed an abundance of cases dealing with ethical

and moral questionable decisions. The professional code of ethics is a resource that we

referred to to help crack some cases. Every teacher is required to sign the code of ethics

stating that they acknowledge it and have read it. This holds every teacher responsible to

the code of ethics. The code of ethics insures that teachers are informed of what is and is

not expected of them. It insures what is ethically correct and incorrect. In a profession

that is not clear-cut, the code of ethics tries to make it a little clearer for us.

The professional codes of ethics for teaching covers three main ethical obligations

teachers have. The three obligations are to the student, the public, and the profession of

education.

Beginning with the obligation to the student, the code of ethics cover specifically

what is not acceptable. Our first obligation as teachers is always to the student and to

provide them with the best education we possibly can. The code of ethics makes this

possible. Some examples of what is listed under the obligation to the student is making

reasonable effort to protect the student from harmful conditions (including physical and

mental health and safety), not unreasonably denying students access to diverse points of

view, not intentionally embarrassing a student, and not intentionally denying a student of

their legal rights. The list continues and spells out some clear rights and wrongs. The

importance of the student is our first concern. In order to do our jobs correctly, and most

importantly, ethically, we must read and fully comprehend the code of ethics.
 The second obligation teachers have, as stated in the code of ethics, is to the

public. This covers the fact that because we chose this career, we are held to higher

standard than most. We are a direct representation of the entire educational system.

Because of this, there are certain ethical responsibilities we must uphold. An example of

some that are listed are to not intentionally distort or misrepresent facts concerning an

educational matter in direct or indirect public expression, not accept gratuity, gift, or

favor that can influence professional judgment, and take reasonable precautions to

distinguish between personal views and those of any educational institution or

organization with which the individual is affiliated. Again, the list goes on. The last

example of a code that was given stuck out to me. In class, we discussed many different

scenarios of personal views such as political party or religion. Although we have the right

of freedom of speech and religion, teachers are ethically expected to withhold this

information in the classroom. These rules are set for a reason. We do not want to

influence a student one way or another. Because teachers are held to a higher standard,

there is a greater chance of this happening. There have been many cases that have been

prevented by reviewing the code of ethics and seeing what is required and not expected

of them. Difficult subjects and scenarios can come about if the code of ethics is

neglected.

The last obligation that teachers have that is stated in the code of ethics is to the

profession of education. Like any profession, there are rules about false statements,

qualifications, and harassment. The education profession is to be respected and follows

specific rules that are unique to the profession as well. Some examples of responsibilities

we have to the profession of education are as follows: self report within 48 hours any
arrests or charges involving the abuse of a child, or the sale/possession of a controlled

substance, not withhold information regarding a position from a applicant, and not

promise special treatment to influence personal judgments of colleagues. This section

was the largest of the three obligations that we have. In my opinion I believe how you

treat your colleagues is almost as important as how you treat your students. Your

colleagues are you peers and it is important to treat them with the utmost respect. You

want to make allies, not enemies, in your place of work.