For the teacher candidate conference at Niagara University, I had the opportunity to host a presentation alongside my partner, focusing on the topic of professionalism within the school community; I believe that professionalism is a very important aspect within the teaching profession, and that teacher candidates especially should be aware of maintaining humility and self accountability in order to not only be an individual who is easy to collaborate with, but an individual who is approachable, respectable, and overall likable.
I have quite a bit to say about this matter, unfortunately, as I've witnessed many acts that many would deem immature, ignorant, and overall hypocritical during my duration as a teacher candidate both within my placements and the university itself; whether it involves continuous gossip, insulting somebody behind their backs while playing a facade of kindness to the individual when they're around, creating online group sessions specifically focused on putting colleagues down, manipulating, insulting an individual's appearances and abilities only to get offended when it is done to them, and an ego-driven superiority complex over others...
Most would agree, these insufferable acts can be deemed unprofessional in almost any regard, and the stress that is associated with this issue is agreeably unneeded and unnecessary. The truth is, despite the consistent manipulation and malicious rhetoric, those who partake in this behaviour will still be working within the profession despite themselves, and it's apparent that the issue is and will remain a big problem for teacher candidates and educators that are already working within the teaching profession, hence why I presented on this topic, as any awareness that can be gained with regards to this topic could help candidates strive to not only better themselves as a teacher, but to better themselves as an individual.
During my practicum experiences, professionalism was always a standard to be expected to ensure that the ethical standards of the teaching profession (Trust, Care, Respect, and Integrity) were maintained amongst school staff and students; if there were any misunderstandings between colleagues, they were expected to resolve them in a timely and peaceful manner (Ontario College of Teachers, 2025). The ethical standards of the teaching profession coincides with both positive relationships among colleagues and the commitment to educating students with regard to the Curriculum, and has assisted me with identifying what is truly expected from an individual who has aspirations to be the best educator that they can be.
As a newly certified educator, I plan to properly communicate and cooperate with my colleagues in a positive manner, and to resolve any issues accordingly with the ethical teaching standards in mind; I believe that it shouldn't be a chore to engage with colleagues with student learning in mind, and I am grateful to have been involved in being a positive influence on students and teachers; if one is constantly on edge about communicating with colleagues in fear of being judged or mocked for their abilities, appearances, or for who they are, is that really a professional environment? Are the ethical standards really being implemented here? Are we really being the best teacher and person that we can be?
Overall, my practicum experiences as a whole, as well as my experiences within the program, have shown me the true importance of professionalism within the school climate, as it coincides with developing a positive learning environment for students, and a positive working environment for all school staff. The school environment should be a place where nobody is judged or insulted, a place where nobody should be mistreated or mocked for their abilities or how they look, a place where everyone is respected and valued. Future students are looking up to us as candidates transitioning into future educators, and the school climate is looking up to us in being self-aware of our actions and being mature, genuine, respectful, and knowledgeable role models for all students, colleagues, and the school community as a whole.
Be aware of your actions, be professional, self-awareness goes a long way; you never know who you may be working for...
References
Ontario College of Teachers. (2025). Ethical Standards. Ontario College of Teachers. Retrieved April 10, 2025, from https://www.oct.ca/public/professional-standards/ethical-standards
Personal Experience as a Teacher Candidate (2023-2025)
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