Professional
Development and Preparation (DEC Code of Ethics)
It’s important for educators to stay
up date on the latest trends in the education field. I am constantly attending
trainings, and taking classes so I can be knowledgeable in early childhood which
allows me to advocate for my students. Because I’m in the special education
realm there is a lot of legal guidelines tied to what I do. Laws are constantly
changing and I need to be aware of what changes to ensure my students are
getting what they need, but also so I don’t get sued.
Ethical
Responsibilities to Children (NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct)
Ideal: I-1.1- To be familiar
with the knowledge base of early childhood care and education and to stay
informed through continuing education and training (NAEYC Code of Ethical
Conduct, 2005).
This ideal is very important to me
right now because I’m in the process of building my knowledge base in early childhood
education through this master’s program. I also just realized that this ideal
ties into the Professional Development and Preparation Ideal from the DEC Code
of Ethics. In order to appropriately advocate for your students, you need to be
knowledgeable and trained in your field.
Ideal I-1.8- To support the
right of each child to play and learn in an inclusive environment that meets
the needs of children with and without disabilities (NAEYC Code of Ethical
Conduct, 2005).
This ideal embodies my job! I am a
special education teacher for 2 inclusive developmental preschool rooms (rooms
have students with and without disabilities). Many of my students have speech/language
delays, as well as social/emotional delays. Having them in a class with gen ed
peers allows them to learn from their peers. They are interacting and playing
with their peers, and they are showing so much growth already.
Ethical
Responsibilities to Colleagues (NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct)
Ideal: I-3A.1- To establish and
maintain relationships of respect, trust, confidentiality, collaboration, and
cooperation with co-workers (NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct, 2005)
In my new position this year I work
closely with 2 preschool facilitators (gen ed teachers) and 4
paraprofessionals. I have never worked with a team this big, so it was
important to build relationships, and trust with each person. Beyond that, I
had to begin working on repairing relationships between paras and facilitators
that were not in good standing from the previous year. We also have had to
learn how to collaborate together, but all this is necessary in order for our
preschool program to run smoothly.
You mentioned a good point on the importance of collaborating with your peers at work. It is so important and you can often learn so much from others and their experience but I also know that at times it can be very hard because of difference of opinions or even sometimes personality conflicts. But it's important that we keep the kids the focus and collaborate for their good!
ReplyDeleteI absolutely agree with the importance of keeping up with the current trends in the early childhood field. Professional development and constantly learning is also important to me.
ReplyDeleteI also think teamwork is key to having a successful working environment. I have been on both sides of that fence and I can tell you it makes a big difference.
It’s so important to maintain ongoing training so we can be knowledgeable and better serve the children. Inclusion classes are excellent. Children learn from their peers and interaction with peers is definitely needed for the growth and development. Team with coworkers is important so the children can receive the best service.
ReplyDeleteHaving a team that trusts each other and collaborated well is so important. Team teaching makes for a welcoming atmosphere, smooth transitions and will foster the learning success and the healthy development of the students.
ReplyDeleteI really liked your commentary on I 1.8
ReplyDeleteI teach in a classroom in which many of my students have different abilities. It is so wonderful to see each of my students grow, and so exciting when they achieve a new skill or try something new because they saw another peer try it. I also agree that you need to be knowledgeable. As teachers we also need to be learners in order to best support our students. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on these various ideals.
A special thank you to Jes. During this course, you have always provided a word of encouragement to your colleagues. You are amazing. I wish you all the best during this new educational chapter in your life.
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