A teacher’s role in education is they are an active, positive force when it comes to learning, planning, and collaborating. It is not enough to just teach a subject. Teachers need to be aware of how their actions affect their students. Through planning and collaboration, they are able to foster fairness, curiosity, and set high expectations for their students. By understanding the Professional Dispositions of Learners, teachers can be at the very forefront of learning and take accountability in advocating for their students.

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In less than a year of teaching, I still stand strong with my original professional disposition statement. Throughout my program I have experienced how much goes into being responsible for 250 students. It is still not enough to just teach a subject. Each student’s situation is unique and that affects every single moment they are in a classroom. A teacher needs to establish their own moral code because every day it will be challenged. The Professional Dispositions of Learners helps back their moral code and guide them on how to handle a situation. Every day we are making rapid decisions. Taking any moment we get to pause and reflect on if we are sticking to our code helps us readjust to becoming more effective teachers. I have changed lesson plans, created new activities, and fostered more student engagement through these reflections.

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A teacher’s moral code should closely follow both the Professional Dispositions of Learners and the Model Code of Ethics. These principles layout how to interact with students, parents, colleagues, and the community to foster a productive learning environment. When I first started my program, these lists felt extensive but obvious. I knew how to dress professionally, be nice to others, and be open minded. Now, I can think of specific moments for every single one of these bullet points that have happened just in this one year. A teacher does not understand the full gravity of these codes until they are using them in their own classroom.

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Through these experiences, I can reflect and grow to become a more effective teacher. I recognize that I have limitations and my first year teaching has helped me find where those bars are. I was willing to give everything to my students, but quickly realized how that leads to burnout. I am caring, I promote social-emotional learning, and I recognize my students' needs. But I also have learned there needs to be boundaries, giving a student unlimited chances does not promote responsibility, and students have to form self-advocacy skills if they are going to thrive after graduation. I continue to have a positive outlook on teaching and the education system, but I now have a more realistic understanding of my role and responsibilities. Being honest and realistic with my professional dispositions and moral code are going to help me continue in this profession and create a productive classroom environment.