The educators' code of ethics states that teachers should help all students develop their talent to its fullest potential. Teachers should allow students to independently pursue learning and to access to different points of view. Also, teachers should not suppress or misrepresent subject matter.
Teachers should foster in their pupils honesty, integrity and consideration for others and model those qualities. In addition, teachers should treat students considerately and justly.
Teachers should try to protect their students from physical or mental harm. They should not intentionally allow students to be embarrassed or disparaged, nor should they discriminate against them. Further, teachers do not use their professional relationship with students for private gain. Unless for a significant professional reason or when required by law, teachers do not disclose confidential information about their students.
The teachers' code of ethics requires teachers to demonstrate competence in the classroom, hold high standards for personal performance and demonstrate personal integrity.
Teachers accept responsibility and accountability for their performance. They only accept positions for which they are qualified, and they fulfill the terms of their contract. Teachers also improve their effectiveness and professional growth. In addition, teachers are responsible and demonstrate initiative and integrity in their teaching and professional actions. They accept responsibility and consequences for their actions and judgments.
Teachers obey written school policies and applicable laws and regulations. They do not purposely misrepresent school policies, and they distinguish their personal opinions from school policies.
Teachers do not accept any gift or privileges that could influence their professional actions and decisions.
The educators' code of ethics acknowledges that quality education requires the efforts of educators, parents and community. Therefore, teachers make conscious efforts to communicate to parents all information that affects the progress and welfare of their children. Teachers also recognize that parents have the right to consult them concerning their children. Though teachers give their best advice concerning their students, they always respect parental authority. Furthermore, teachers recognize and respect the diversity of their students and their families. Finally, teachers positively influence school/community relations.
Teachers treat all members of the profession equitably and work to advance the field of education. They extend to their colleagues respect and professional courtesy, and they support their colleagues' freedom of choice. Additionally, they assist their junior colleagues and those in training.
However, teachers do not help any unqualified person obtain a position in the profession. Teachers do not make false or malicious statements about fellow educators nor reveal confidential information about a colleague unless required by law.
Teachers recognize their obligation to advance the profession and improve their effectiveness as educators.