Ethics concepts and practical applications

Miami Dade School District

Ethics Violation

Example of Violation

Penalty for Violation

Financial Interests

Business transactions which conflict with official duties as an educator.

Honoraria

Giving speeches or presentations for money during school time.

Outside Income (moonlighting)

Employees may not accept earned income that conflicts of interest with duties.

May not restrain students from independent learning.

Prevention of inquisitive behavior amongst students.

Shall not exploit a relationship with a student for personal gain.

Hiring a student to mow your lawn.

Gifts and Gratitudes

May not accept gifts in exchange for favors.

This school district's code of ethics includes many important topics including receiving gifts, proper student/teacher relations and limitations on earnings money while using the profession as means to create business. The code relates very general ideas to the problems associated with certain ethical violations and is not very lengthy. The emphasis is directed at financial ethical violations more so than moral or other types of ethics. The code's language is clear, concise and presents a strong set of rules.

There are not explicit directions in this code of ethics that relates to reporting and filing complaints about unethical behavior in this code of ethics. It appears this code of ethics is much more about offering guidelines for behavior and any real violations are taken up at the school level and the district leadership's reactions are based off those conclusions. The school district in question reveals that unethical behavior will be punished but does not describe how the punishment is carried out nor does it suggest specific punishments for specific violations.

Part 2

The ASA's code of ethics is a comprehensive collection of ethical ideals that are useful in guiding the school employee into performing the correct actions that aligns with the aims and objectives of the larger organization. The 12 standards described are simple and complete. The focus is on ensuring that the teacher understands their role within society and does not take advantage of the situation presented to them within the school systems. The 12 tenets described in this code are extremely useful as a baseline format for any school district.

The example used in my ethical investigation is mostly aligned with the ASA's version of ethical compliance. In both codes, the student's well being is placed as the most primary objective of ethical behavior and the rule of law is paramount. The Miami-Dade code, however is much more focused on the monetary aspects of ethics than the ASA's version

Standard #4 is an important statement within the ASA's code of ethics. It states that those following the code: "implements local, state and national laws." The purpose behind this standard is clear, but it is hard to realize in practice due to the complexities of each level of law. Many times teachers, including myself are often ignorant of the massive amounts of laws and regulations that are present at each level of government.

Part 3

1. Empathy: Treat others as you would have them treat you, with empathy.

2. Honesty: The honest use of this profession is paramount.

3. Efficiency: It is morally right to not waste others' time.

4. Respect: Respect others.

5. Teamwork: Teamwork is an essential behavior that combines forces for the better.

It is important for me as a school leader to develop and maintain a moral compass that is aligned with the values of the community, school environment and especially myself. There are many instances and times when teacher may be allowed to take significant advantage of their situation and the power they have over the young people exposed to their profession. Teachers are human and have faults and problems like everyone else. A moral compass is useful in guiding me when my values are challenged and I am tempted to do thins that may not be considered ethically valid or morally solid.