The teacher seeks opportunities for professional learning and development, He/she models the traits of a life-long learner and seeks to continually evaluate and elevate his/her craft. The teacher is aware of the effects of his/her choices and actions on others; particularly on learners, families, colleagues, and the community as a whole. He/she should exemplify the best practices in instruction and professional conduct.
A teacher embodies this standard in a number of ways. It is important to model a high degree of professionalism as this instills confidence in an educator’s abilities within the community, and garners respect from students and peers. Three important ways an educator can display this standard are; membership in professional organizations, representing the profession at events, and communications with stakeholders.
The first way I demonstrate competence in this standard is by communicating with stakeholders. This can be done by emails to peers and parents, phone calls or formal letters. It’s important that parents and educators are aligned in a common objective. It is important that parents feel that they are being treated as a partner in their child’s educational experience and that their concerns are addressed in a timely and professional manner.
Another way that this standard is exemplified by me, my participation in professional organizations like the NSTA, NEA and other organization devoted to public service or information. This shows that an educator’s dedication doesn’t begin and end at the schoolhouse doors. It confirms that they are a lifelong learner and devoted to furthering knowledge on a communal level.
A third way that I demonstrate this standard is by representing the profession at events. An educator should attend seminars whenever possible, seek out webinars and subscribe to various trade subscriptions. I currently receive a science educators magazine and have been a judge at both the county and regional science fairs. I also attend writing seminars and belong to writing clubs. Lastly by demonstrating diverse academic interest an educator models behavior indicative of a life-long learner.
For more on this standard see the link to my paper on Professionalism.