“Educators act ethically and maintain the integrity, credibility and reputation of the profession.”
We as teachers do not stop being teachers outside of the classroom. We must hold the BC ethical standards for educators at all times. Any way we present ourselves in public is a representation of what happens inside the classroom.
To me, hearing kids say on the street “Hello Mr. G!” shocks me every time. It has given them a different view of who I am. I could want to be different outside of the classroom, but to the mind of a child, I am always Mr. G. It is difficult to understand the responsibility we now hold for our community. But there is a level of respect that must be held towards a person who is educating you at all times. When we hear politicians, celebrities, and in this case even teachers say or do offputting things, our view of them changes and it makes you wonder what truly goes on in the classroom.
It is a strong responsibility that makes you know that you are now a beacon of the community you are educating and you should not take that responsibility for granted. Kids, parents, and your peers look up to you and the hard work you do as an educator. Do not disappoint them.
