Code of Ethics Mind Walk

For e-portfolio--Domain I, Competency 3

In reviewing each of the ethical standards under each of the three main areas of Chapter 247 of the TAC, here were some examples where I could identify at least one ethical conflict in each of the three areas of the Code:

1.  Overall professional ethical conduct, practices and performance that may result in a complaint could be accepting gift cards from a parent.  Often times, students offer their teacher’s some form of gifts during Christmas season, Valentine’s Day, a birthday or end of the year as a way to show their appreciation and gratitude.  However, some gifts that are offered, such as a gift card, can be in violation of this standard as it may impair professional judgment.

2.  Unethical conduct toward professional colleagues occurs frequently “under the radar.”  Many times school staff and administration do not agree on several ideas or decisions.  When this happens, observations are made about the “favoritism’” that is given to colleagues who agree with the majority.  This begins to create a sense of competition amongst colleagues, tension and animosity towards others, a sense of being discriminated, and creates a lower morale in the workplace.

3.  Unethical conduct toward students also occurs frequently “under the radar.”  One example is keeping a student from participation in a program such as an enrichment program, because the student frequently fails to turn in a homework assignment.  One of the most unethical conduct towards students is to solicit or engage in sexual conduct or a romantic relationship with a student.  Media reports nationwide have covered such unethical conduct from teachers, substitutes, paraprofessionals and administrators.

Describe the possible consequences of personnel engaging in any of the above ethical conflicts.

The possible consequence of personnel engaging in any of the above ethical conflicts are requiring the withdrawal of person from educator preparation program; place restrictions on the issuance, renewal or holding of a certificate, either indefinitely or for a set term; issue an inscribed reprimand, published censure that appears on the face of the educator’s official certification records; issue a non-inscribed reprimand, unpublished censure that does not appear on educator’s official certification records; suspend a certificate for a set term; or revoke or cancel a certificate without opportunity for reapplication for a set term or permanently.

Using one of the above conflicts as an example, describe how you would respond to the conflict as a campus principal.

As a campus principal, I would respond to the conflict as set by the state and district guidelines and policies.  I must act with integrity, fairness, and in a legal and ethical manner.  I would meet with the staff member who has been alleged of the conflict to conduct an investigation into the accusations.  If found to be factual, then, I would begin due process.