Standard 2 is defined as the standard where “educators act ethically and maintain the integrity, credibility, and reputation of the profession.” Standard 2 in my opinion is one of the most important standard an educator will uphold within their career of teaching.
When you become an educator, you are objected to maintain a certain lifestyle that aligns with the profession. Not only are we being seen inside the classroom/school environment, we are also being seen outside of the school as well. In-fact, we as teacher candidates should be already incorporating Standard 2 into our daily lives. We represent UNBC, when we observe the many different schools with Prince George, and when we are also not “known” as the students within our daily lives. We as educators are to maintain a lifestyle that reflects who we are as teachers. I full-heartedly will always aspire to act ethically, respectfully, responsibly, and hold myself to a high regard within both my professional life and my life outside of the classroom.
I have worked as an EA within SD57 for the past 5 years, as soon as I graduated from high school. Having this position at such a young age helped me understand the values of Standard 2. I wanted and continue to want to be a role model for the students I work with, show professionalism with my colleagues and mentors, and continue to strive to be the best I can be for the school community and myself. I will always strive to demonstrate kindness, patience, respect, and integrity while I continue this journey as an educator.
Although Standard 2 demonstrates that educators are held at a higher standard than other professions, I do also believe that it is important to stay true to who we are and continue to enjoy things we love without feeling guilty.
As we are now mid-way into Block 2, a few short weeks into heading into our very first practicum, I will ensure that I am representing UNBC, our BEd cohort, and myself personally to a high standard and demonstrate Standard 2 throughout my journey. I will create relationships with staff members within the school I am placed at, show up early and come prepared, as well as lend a helping hand where it is needed. I will be kind, show professionalism, and create a fun/inviting learning environment for my students. I am beyond grateful for this opportunity to teach within the schools of SD57 over the next 8 months and I am grateful to have been accepted into the program I once dreamed about being in. Standard 2 will always be incorporated into my life and I can’t wait to see what the future hold throughout my career as an educator.