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The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Grand Canyon University. Any sources cited were accurate as of the publish date.
Window shopping was my favorite activity in college as I would virtually clothe myself with a prospective cute little red suit, for I thought this meant you have “arrived” and are truly a professional. However, to be a professional means not only to dress the part but “be” the part. But what does a professional in education really mean; or more importantly how does it look?
As we work with children and especially families through our interactions, we must demonstrate ethical behavior which is a fundamental key to being a professional. Ethical behavior and professionalism are two concepts that can be considered interchangeable, so let’s look at first how to define these similar terms, and then we can see what practices embody professional ethics.
First, how are these two terms intertwined? How you present yourself in your workplace should be an honest representation of your personal values. Moreover, exhibiting ethical behaviors fosters positive interactions which helps one achieve career goals. With that, there are at least five practical ways (the 5 P’s) that you can not only demonstrate educational ethics in your classroom and around your school community, but also to be indeed a professional.
Each day is a new opportunity to make a difference, and sadly, many people go through life without much thought; it’s easy to be tossed around by the urgencies of the day. The true professional finds value in being intentional with time and with forging positive relationships.
For example, part of the joy of teaching is being a conduit to helping families thrive. Being actively involved with our families means that we are meeting face to face regularly, empowering families with materials for home help and intervening if we see potential learning challenges. The U.S. Department of Education report showed that at 71 high-poverty schools where teachers were active in outreach to families, the students’ reading and math scores improved at a 50% faster rate in reading and a 40% faster rate for math.1
These relationships we form help gain the trust of parents, students, staff and colleagues which are fundamental to being a professional. The result of these trusting relationships show that the professional is deeply concerned with the school community, thus creating an environment that maximizes learning and bolsters achievement.
Another way to be a professional in education through participation is to value and seek collaboration and professional development. Again, professionals value their time and are intentional on being open to ideas and obtaining feedback from other educators — this will only strengthen and grow one’s commitment to learning. Although school administration may provide professional development, one must continue to be a student of learning and growing through not only content knowledge but also personal growth. This means utilizing resources such as:
Professionals are people “Plea”ers! That means you are looking to grow as an educator by having mentors. Lifelong learners seek to become better at their craft, which means feedback is always welcome. When you do receive feedback or you are making a promise to try something, professionals follow through and follow up. Moreover, you honor your commitments and role-model that effervescent hunger for knowledge and growth.
The most important person in the world is the person you are talking to. This is how the person on the other end should feel. When conversing, it should feel as though you matter to them and your laser beam focus on what they are saying takes precedent over anything at that moment. Why? Because you are actively listening — not just hearing. This might play out when speaking to a student, a colleague or a superior. Be present.
While you are present, you are also presenting your best self with modest and professional clothing. Dress the part of how you would want to be treated. If you want to be treated like a professional with respect, then dress the part.
To be a professional means you are paying attention to your surroundings. First, when it comes to interacting with students, there’s always that tension between being a teacher and being a friend. Professional teachers abstain from the need to be liked so they can stay consistent with enforcing classroom and school rules. This means not showing any favoritism, believing all students can learn and succeed. Of course, there are exceptions, and the professional teacher has the discernment to adjust when needed.
Next, remember in middle school when your so-called friend would share some type of gossip with you about another so-called friend? It’s no secret that if the gossiper is gossiping about another, they are doing it about you as well. The fastest way to lose trustworthiness is not only to be a gossip but then to listen to it.
Professionals have healthy boundaries, seeking relationships that are particularly business only — never sharing confidential information. This could mean limiting conversations to only edifying comments about others or asking questions working toward clarity when needed. A professional teacher is a role model of being quick to listen and slow to speak.
When you add up these five P’s of professionalism and ethical behavior, it’s an automatic win in creating a safe and effective learning environment, which is conducive to students achieving beyond the standards. Students know and feel that their teacher is committed to their personal education because the standards are set high and they can see trust being built. This makes positive and successful learning outcomes a given.
Are you ready to elevate your teaching to new heights? With a focus on practical application and research, the College of Doctoral Studies at Grand Canyon University (GCU) will prepare you to be a professional leader in your field. The Education Specialist in Teaching and Learning doctoral degree from GCU is offered entirely online, making it flexible and convenient for working professionals. Take the next step in your career by mastering the five P’s of professionalism to become a highly qualified educator. Apply now to start your journey toward professional excellence.
1U.S. Department of Education. (2021, July). Office of the Deputy Secretary, Planning and Evaluation Service. Retrieved on March 16, 2023.
Approved by a senior adjunct professor for the College of Education on April 13, 2023.
Professionals live by this motto — arriving five minutes early is arriving on time. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it speaks volumes to your value system. It has been said that punctuality is a sign of respect when you show up not only on time but early. Arriving to your commitments on time demonstrates your care and appreciation for others’ time and their presence in your life. It can also be a sign that you are prepared and ready to learn and listen. This applies to professional development meetings, grade level meetings, conferences or any other gathering where your presence is needed.
