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What Kind of Values does Today’s Teachers Must Have? Part 7

 

In summary so far, Trustworthiness as one of the key core ethical values has left us thinking in the past six parts about detecting situations in regards to using honesty with truthfulness, sincerity/non-deception and frankness.  It showed us to be honest in our conduct not allowing using trickery in our thinking behavior.  It helped us to focus on upholding this value where we may sacrifice another.  Then we added integrity to trustworthiness where the  person of integrity takes time for self-reflection so that the events, crises and the necessities of the day do not determine the course of the moral life but to be careful of self-interest and self-deception.  Added to these elements was reliability or when we make promises or commitments to people our ethical duties go beyond legal obligations.  The ethical dimension of promise keeping imposes the responsibility of making all reasonable efforts to fulfill our commitments.  Finally, last week, loyalty was about promoting and protecting the interests of  your school, parents, children, organizations and/or affiliations.

Respect is the second core value and it is about honoring the essential worth and dignity of all people, including oneself.  We are morally obligated to treat everyone with respect, regardless of who they are and what they have done.  We have a responsibility to be the best we can be in all situations, even when dealing with unpleasant people.   It is so hard for us to forgive the unpleasant manager or friend that hurts you but when we do forgive with sincerely and from the heart, it will leave you with such a great feeling of relief and peace.

Respect focuses on courtesy and decency.   This respect adds in us of becoming a good listener, treating others with consideration, accepting notions of tastes which does not resort to intimidation and coercion (forcing in gaining compliance) and is able to maintain order, teach discipline in affected ways and help the child to achieve.  The child will see you not only as a great teacher of respect but a super role model.  Is is not wonderful to see that child taking this guidance of respect and trustworthiness you taught with them into their future?   Next week, the third core values will be responsibility.

As usual before we leave today, here is another scenario about Kenneth to solve from this ethical dilemma:  Bill is the only male staff member of your school.  Bill’s friend has told John about some bizarre and disturbing behavior about Kenneth who is five-years old.  Other staff is concerned that Kenneth needs some professional help.  However, later, Bill finds out that Kenneth does not meet the eligibility requirements needed to receive professional help. Bill was asked by the director of the school to provide private therapy for Kenneth, even though he does not have any experience in private practice.

Question:  If you were Bill, what is the best decision to make for Kenneth and his therapy?   How do you respect your director with his idea?

 

 

 

 

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