Ethical behavior is essential to any learning environment. Educators are trusted with not only students’ education, but their emotional wellbeing. As such, educators must develop and maintain codes of ethics. Given the nature of students with special needs, this code becomes all the more applicable. The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) has created such a code of ethics that many teachers choose to follow.
The codes are simple, but purposeful, in their concepts. Most importantly, educators must maintain the highest levels of professionalism and competency. Educators must also work within the limits of the policies without violating the Delegate Assembly of the CEC. Finally, educators will develop an overall sense of accomplishment and self-worth throughout this given community. There are eight topics total, however, they all follow these basic principles.
Additionally, educators do have an innate responsibility to the welfare of students. Most teachers who remain in the field for several years do so out of a sense of desire to serve the students and not for self-indulgence. This does not mean, however, that they are excused from accepting a code of ethics upon entering the profession. Moreover, educators can only do this by maintaining their levels of professionalism and competency.
Imagine for a moment the educator who ceases to recertify themselves in their given craft over several years, especially in a subject as unique as special needs students. Although educators must always strive for excellence in their craft, there will come moments when they must work within certain restraints. This is the unfortunate byproduct of a bureaucratic hierarchy, seeking only to shift the blame when the moment presents itself. Such has been the case when society allows the big government to impose laws and mandates in school systems. On the other hand, overall, ethics are a necessity in education; especially in educating those with special needs.