Chapter ten, which discusses teacher freedoms, was of particular importance to me. I am somewhat concerned that by taking the position as a teacher my professional obligations might obscure my constitutional freedoms. I am personally a very politically active person, who is fairly vocal about my opinions and as I understand this chapter, I will not have to forego my outspoken demeanor. I must just consider and know that my personal convictions should not be discussed within a classroom or on school time. As I understand it I may engage in activities like hanging a sign in my yard regarding an election- but I am not allowed to hang the same sign in my classroom. I also understand that I must preface public statements by saying that the statements I am making are as a private citizen and not as a representative of the school or district.. This chapter also answered a question I had been wondering in the back of my mind. I had wondered as to whether Muslim women were allowed to were the hijab (the traditional headdress) while teaching. According to the text it is consider to be an overt statement about your religion and probably not a protected religious freedom when wore inside a classroom. However; I also inferred from the text that as long as the community and the school did not mind it would probably be acceptable. Chapter ten was pretty significant to my understanding of where my rights end and the rights of my students begin, I was thankful to have a brief chapter over those topics.
Now this chapter I found intriguing. As a teacher we are responsible for our speech and conduct inside and outside the school building. I have recently seen several cases where teachers have lost their jobs for pictures or speech they have used on facebook. Social media is a major concern for school districts and how teachers present themselves is a reflection on the school district directly. I find the issue of dress code and personal grooming to be slightly humorous because I see teachers coming to school in inappropriate clothing all the time. Professional dress is simple and I am not sure how administrations can get the point across any clearer. As a Para we are required to view a short video on appropriate dress code tips before entering the classroom. In my mind, to spend money on this issue is outrageous but necessary evil because I still see individuals coming to school in mini-skirts and cleavage showing tops. Great chapter with good information about our rights and more importantly our responsibilities as teachers to ask and dress as if our mothers were watching.
In response to Jena S, I agree that educating on appropriate dress and professionalism is a necessary evil. My husband happened to enter the room when I was watching the lecture with the example of inappropriate dress- he said , “Is that really necessary?” I had to tell him it was. I think that many first time teachers are just entering the workforce for the first time, and for many this is their first ‘real’ job. Part of being a professional is carrying that image to the community. That is where I found you post interesting, when you addressed social media. The thing that is so hard to control is when other people may access to your pictures and tag you in them. I think I’m fairly fortunate that most of my friends are moms and wives and would never post anything to questionable, but it is something that is becoming very difficult these days. I also think it will be interesting to see where social media disputes advance to.
When looking at chapter 10 of the law module book I found information about teacher freedoms that I didn’t know before. Academic freedom doesn’t mean that a teacher can teach his or her students anything that they want to it means that a teacher can provide the students with freedom of inquiry, research and discussion of various ideas. Academic freedom still means that a teacher needs to teach material that is within the students’ grade level standards as well as is at the correct maturity level of the students both intellectually and socially. As far as political rights are concerned teachers have the same right as public citizens but the political activities such as campaigning and running for public office need to be conducted away from the school and not interfere with the teaching process. This chapter also talked about professional dress and a teacher needs to look professional at all times in the school building and set high standards for your image as a teacher. Lastly a side note of religious freedom it is very important that as a teacher we don’t push our own religion onto our students and we need to remain neutral as far as religion is concerned when teaching in our classroom.
I think that it is great that you are able to understand your teacher freedoms as far as your constitutional freedoms are concerned. I also learned that it is ok to put a sign for a election in your own yard you just can’t bring the sign into the school building or your own classroom which if you think about it it makes sense. Also that it is a very good point that you bring up about Muslim women being able to wear the hijab and I got the same type of response out of the reading that you did. I feel that it would definitely depend on the community and the school and if they didn’t see any major problems concerning wearing the hijab then I think that the school would allow it. When I was reading this chapter it sounded like the school building can or can’t allow it depending on the community views and the views of the school on religion. Lastly I also was able to see where my freedoms begin or end in respect to my future teaching career.
Out of this whole chapter I only want to discuss a couple sections. The first being dress and appearance of teachers. I had a teacher who looked absolutely unprofessional to a tee. He had long, gray hair that he never brushed. a matching gray, furry beard to go with. His clothes always looked dirty and had holes in some. He never brushed what little teeth he had and smoked like a train between classes. It was unbelievable. It took I had to go into class and focus or respect anything he had to say. To top it off he violated his right of speech and opinion when he began preaching to us about our government and various social and religious matters. You could get him off science in a matter of seconds if you brought up a current issue of politics. I lost faith in our school board members at that time and stopped being proud of where I came from.
You last couple sentences really caught my attention. I guess for me this is going to be an issue. It’s not that I will be pushing it on my students or forcing them to listen or practice or anything like that. I understand the trouble I could get in my even mentioning God my room. Like I said I don’t want to push it on my students but I also want it to be known and not just to them but also my colleagues, where I stand, next in Christ. That is who I am and how I live my life so I can’t see myself pretending or just shutting my “God” button off during class. Again, I won’t push a topic on them or begin the discussion and I will probably suggest we move on if it does get brought up but they will know God is important to me.
I found chapter 10 to be very informative. I think that it is good to know what you can’t do but it is also good to know what freedoms you do have. I think that it is great that schools allow teachers to have religious freedom as long as it doesn’t affect instruction in the classroom. One of my elementary teachers was a Jehova’s witness member. She never once spoke about it in class, but she was never in school on holidays since she didn’t celebrate them the same as most of our class did. I really like that teachers are allowed academic freedom as well. Of course we have standards and curriculum to follow, but it is nice to know that if we deem something academically appropriate, we can teach it. I think that proper dress and appearance is very important as well. We need to make sure that we are setting the best example possible for our students and dress is one way to do this. I think that we also need to make sure that our appearance is comfortable as well. Clothes and shoes that don’t fit right could cause major problems in the classroom. I completely agree with the importance of freedom of speech but that we need to monitor what is said outside of the classroom as well. You never really know who is related to the student in which you are speaking about so you have to be very careful to follow the rules of confidentiality.
Katie- that's unfortunate that you had to experience that. I have never had any teachers like that. I would think it would be hard to gain student's respect if you don't appear to respect yourself!
The first guide they have listed under teacher freedoms is “Teachers do not lose their constitutional rights when they enter the educational profession. Within reasonable limits, they posses the same constitutional rights as do other citizens.” So, with that being said, we really do not have the same rights. I feel as if chapter ten was telling me, as a teacher, you have your rights, but those rights are now under school district and are even stricter. For example, under “freedom of expression” it says teachers have the right under the First Amendment, but it is limited, so that means teachers really do not have that right. I am not complaining about how strict and limited teacher freedom is, but I think the text shouldn’t say “you have the same rights, they are just limited”, because really they are not the same rights if they are limited. I have always viewed my teachers with respect. I often thought of them as perfect and always wanted to make them proud of me. When I see a teacher drink alcohol or smoke, I feel let down. Is that just me?
In reply to Kristle: I like your comment on how we as teachers must remember our confidentiality. Often we are so caught up in a conversation or our opinions we forget what we are saying and things slip out. I also like your ideas about dressing professionally and comfortable. A professionally look doesn't have to be painful :)
This chapter on freedoms for teachers was another interesting one. On one hand it is saying we as teachers still have our constitutional rights and freedoms and on the other hand I feel like they are saying “but we are watching you”. I believe we do have right but as an educational professional we are held at a higher standard than others. I believe it is sometimes best to just stay neutral on controversial subjects rather than stand out and make a scene. My dad was a coach and teacher for 40 years and he would not buy alcohol at the local liquor store because he believed it showed a bad example, so he would buy it in a nearby town where no one know his name. There is also the issue of to facebook or not to facebook…what to do? I heard a while back that a teacher could be losing her job and possibly her license for her status post that she put on facebook. YIKES! I think it really just comes down to holding yourself accountable and at another level than those around you. We need to be setting a great example for our students and you never know when someone might be watching or listening.
@ Kristie C You picked some great points out of the reading Kristie! I like the story you shared about religion and your teacher being a Jehovah’s Witness. I do believe that there is a time and place for religion and it is not in schools. People should have their rights to practice whatever religious freedoms they would like, but I don’t feel it should be discussed in length in the school and that is what this law is saying.
Chapter 10 was very interesting to me because I have always had questions about the rights of teachers. Obviously, teachers are citizens of our country, and enjoy the same basic freedoms as any other citizen. If it wasn’t this way, it would have gone against what our country was founded for. But at the same time, teachers must “tow the line” on their behavior. Even though they have the same rights, I believe that teachers should be more reserved with their behavior because it is ultimately in the best interest of the students. In my hometown recently, there were several letters to the editor in our local newspaper asking our superintendent to resign. This continued on for weeks, when all the sudden, a letter from a high school teacher was in there with the same intent. As I read the article, I kept thinking that this teacher was awfully gutsy because she’s most likely going to get fired over this. She never did because which still surprises me, even after reading this chapter. She was openly disruptive to the school system. If my school district would have fired her, I do not think she would have had any ground to stand on.
In response to Shawna W- I think that you hit the nail on the head when you said that teachers are held to a higher stand than a person in another profession. For the best interest of the students, most times it is best to not let your opinion be known or to be neutral because it can disrupt the classroom. Students may not have an opinion on what you are saying, but you better believe that their parents will. You mentioned going into liquor stores or in a bar. Again, although we are grown adults and have the right to do that, it is best not too. In my opinion, by becoming a teacher, you choose to give up these rights.
To Adrianne: I liked your post about being outspoken. I too am a very outspoken person. However, what has helped me filter what is appropriate and not appropriate to discuss in a classroom is my children. I think about would I want a teacher to share their personal beliefs with my children. I think if it does not have to do with teaching than it should not be discussed in the classroom. I don't want a teacher discussing their religious, sexual or political beliefs with my children. That is the job of the parents.
I think as teachers we need to remember the public role we play to so many people. I know as a parent I am concerned about the teachers who are with my children everyday. In our internships we have been taught about how to act and dress professionally. I can imagine walking into a classroom and seeing my son's teacher tattooed all over or facial piercings. I believe in freedom of expression, but it belongs elsewhere not in the classroom with impressionable children. As we watch the news or read the NEA magazine it seems like there is always a teacher getting in trouble for something they posted on a social network. While this is a private activity a teacher needs to have enough common sense to know that social networking is open to the whole world.
To Katie C: Wow...I can not believe that teacher behaved that way. As I have went through the internships I have began to notice how some school professional dress and it is not good. I have seen tattoos, facial piercings, cleavage etc. I have made a greater effort to make sure I am well groomed.
Chapter ten discusses the freedoms that teachers have. Like other citizens, teachers have the same freedoms as expressed in the Constitution. Like the chapter discusses, it is important to keep in mind that teachers are looked up to as important "role-models" in the community. There definitely is a fine line between holding a professional role in the community and expression of First Amendment Rights. Part of me says that I should be able to express myself in a manner that does not violate any laws or the Constitution. However, I do feel that as a professional, it is important to engage in activities that promote good citizenship and integrity.
I recently heard that Missouri outlawed the usage of Facebook for any of it's public school teachers. I do not agree with this because I feel as it violates my First Amendment Rights. Really, if a teacher is going to act in a lewd and lascivious way, he/she will probably do it in a not-so-public way. At least Facebook is somewhat public!
Andrew, While not surprised that the teacher did not loose her job, I would not recommend writing a letter to the editor regarding the superintendent. This behavior probably escalated the situation and made the superintendent and teacher look foolish. As professionals, we must discuss matters in a constructive manner as to not personally attack anyone, including school officials.
I found this chapter very interesting. Teachers have the same freedoms as everyone else, but we are around children who are at a very impressionable age. It is our responsibility to make sure we are aware of what we are doing and saying at all times because sometimes students might not be ready to handle or understand what we are discussing. It must be appropriate for their grade level, intellectual, and maturity levels. This chapter also taught me that we have political rights, but they must be limited to being away from the classroom and outside the normal school day. This chapter also discusses the right to privacy, and if school officials can demonstrate that lifestyle choices adversely affects the integrity of the school, they have a case. It states that when private conduct becomes highly publicized so much that the teachers relationship and reputation with parents are impaired appropriate actions will be taken against the teacher. I am sure this is a big problem today with social media. I feel that people just put too much information out there and should know that parents, students, and other administration will be looking for this information.
I am also always hearing about teachers getting into trouble for something they posted on a social network. I agree that teachers should have the right to use these networks, but as a professional you must be responsible. I just can't believe when I hear about a teacher getting fired because they put something negative about their students on a blog. What are they thinking??
This was an extremely interesting chapter. So much goes into teacher freedoms, both inside and outside of the classroom. Teachers have their lives outside and the freedoms to do what they'd like, but they also need to be conscious of what they are doing / saying and where they are. Inside the classroom we're allowed to have these freedoms but we need to make sure we are aware of our students as individuals and not to use our thoughts to sway what their thoughts and ideas are. Freedoms as a teacher also play a role in the teaching aspect of the classroom. There is curriculum to follow but there is no set way that we need to teach that curriculum. Again using a tasteful / appropriate approach will be key in this.
Chapter 10 was very interesting. I have always thought it was interesting how some teachers carried themselves away from school and in school. The way I understand this is that we are professional educators. What we do matters inside or outside. Kind of like when we started our reading methods class and Dr. Walizer talks about our email names and our social networking sites. We have to watch ourselves. We have to represent our school and ourselves in a good way. We must not only represent ourselves in the way we act, but also the way we dress. The main part about this chapter is that we still have our constitutional rights. @ Shawna W. I like the way you put this. You still have all your rights as Americans, but we are watching you. I would totally agree with this. I believe that we as educators have to be held to a different and higher standard.
In chapter 10 I found this the most interesting, as teachers we are supposed to be responsible for our actions. Things on Facebook and things you put on social networking sites can get you into trouble. There was a teacher back from my hometown that used to post things on Facebook that I didn’t think would be appropriate. Also as teachers we need to keep our pages professional. I don’t think that you should be friends with students nor their parents; I know that this can be hard if you are previously friends but you need to stay professional. I agree we need to have the freedom but you as the teacher is always in the public’s eye.
Indeed as teachers we need to be careful, certainly teachers should not be Facebook friends with their students; unless the student is also their child, in which case they should be.
It is things like this that can complicate the matter. Additionally do you think teachers need to be careful not to be Facebook friends with other people who clearly say things that are not appropriate.
This chapter on teacher freedoms in interesting and correct, as far as it goes. As teachers we basically still have all of the same rights we had before, but we must be careful. Opinions must clearly be only the opinion of us, and must even be labeled as such. It is the labeling thing that teachers likely violate most often.
Additionally we must also remember that our students are not as lucky, they do not maintain as many of their rights as we do.
The old lawyer that is me likes this chapter but feels that there is more that it likely should cover.
At the same time this chapter is well worth our time. Remember that a good morality clause can make a teacher feel like these freedoms are more limited then they really are. Yes, some contracts likely have a morality clause, even more likely if they have been to court in the past.
To Lindsay H: I agree with you that we always need to watch what we put where. We are in the public eye all the time. Respecting ourselves with dress is also very important.
The book “A Teacher’s Pocket Guide to School Law 2nd Edition by Nathan L. Essex explains and examines different laws that teachers and people in general need to be aware of. Chapter ten of Essex’s book talks about different freedoms that teachers have. This chapter of the book provided me new interesting knowledge, had me reflect on my own life and made me ask questions about the book. Something that I learned in this chapter of the text book was that there are laws to protect teachers and what they may do in their personal lives but teachers need to remember that they are considered role models to impressionable children. What teachers do in their personal life should not interfere with their school life or affect the students. A piece of information that made me look at my own experiences was the section on “Right to Privacy” in Essex (2011) book (Essex, 149). Essex (2011) book states that “Within the context of privacy right, teachers may exercise personal choices, which may range from living with a person of the opposite sex to other lifestyle choice” (Essex, 149). This reminded me of a physical education teacher that I had in junior high. This teacher had expressed her own personal sexual preference by displaying it on a bumper sticker on her car. It was not the lifestyle choice that bothered me, it was the uncomfortable feeling I would get when she would come into the locker room while we were changing out of our gym cloths. I almost wish I did not know about her personal life because of the way it made me feel in gym class. A question that I had in the text was I wanted to know if anyone else remember when people wanted to band the “Pledge of Allegiance” in the classroom because it used the word “god”. What ever happened in that matter? References: Essex, N. L. (2011). Teacher’s Pocket Guide to School Law (2nd ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson.
Law Modules Chapter 10- Chapter 10 was about Teacher Freedoms which I believe to be a very important subject that needed to be covered. I have wondered at times about how my constitutional rights will be treated once I do gain employment in a school district. There have been so many cases in the past where teachers believed they were treated unfairly that I was happy to be able to read how different freedoms are protected and how the issues may be handled. I was surprised to read the section on freedom of speech because there is such a large separation of schools from religion and that teaching religious values and beliefs is such a sensitive matter within the public school systems. I agree that these should remain separate however from my experience it depends very much on where the school is and what type of culture surrounds the school. It seems to be much more acceptable in small rural school districts for the separation to be slightly skewed.
Lindsay, I agree with you that as professional educators we have to be careful what we do all the time because we are role models and there are so many people that look up to them. Teachers are respected and often times trusted to do the right thing.
I was interested to see what you had to say about this chapter after reading your response to chapter 9.
I love how labeling opinions was mentioned and how important it is that we try and remember that. Certain topics need to be tiptoed through these days because there are so many differing opinions and so many people these days are more willing to stand up for what they believe and defend themselves and their children when they may not agree with what may be happening in the classroom.
Chapter 10 is about the freedoms teachers have in and out of the school. Teachers have freedom of expression but with limits. They need to know what they are doing or saying is not causing disruption but creating a learning environment. Other freedoms include academic, freedom of association, political rights, dress and grooming, religious freedoms, and right to privacy. As I was reading through these I just shook my head up and down agreeing with the passages. A lot of it was common sense but was a good review.
I too liked to be able to read about different issues of teacher freedoms and how they were handled. It lets me know what I can expect in the school and what can be done about it. I also agree that it depends on the school of whether to keep freedom of speech and teaching religious values and beliefs separate.
Teacher freedoms were very interesting to read about. I learned quite a bit from this chapter. It really explained the freedoms teachers have in regards to academic freedom. They are not able to teach their own information, but they are able to teach it in a way that they feel comfortable with, but as long as it is in within the grade level and is age appropriate. The chapter also touched base about dressing appropriately. This is being taught to us quite regularly in the internship meetings. Dr. Walizer and the other supervisors are always commenting on dispositions and dress is a part of that. I am grateful that it is being mentioned over and over again, because sometimes I think people forget what it constitutes and how it is important to remember. I am glad that they are emphasizing over it over and over again. It will be stuck in my head and I will remember it easier when I am actually a teacher. I also liked in the chapter that it talked about how teachers can conduct themselves in the community and outside of school. I agree but disagree with the factors of things on facebook or other personal websites. I think somethings don’t need to hinder a person from getting a job. IT is not a bad thing for that person and so why should it constitute whether they get a job or not.
In response to Jena Simms – I totally agree with what you said about dress. They are always teaching us in internship meetings that dress is a part of disposition. Well I think there are some teachers in this world that need to sit in the class during the meeting and see that difference. I think with the way Dr. Cook-Benjamin came in to the internship meeting the other day would have made these teachers realize they look ridiculous. I agree that Dr. Walizer should be teaching about this now so we are prepared and we know what is expected of us. I interned last semester in a different school in a different district and she was able to dress anyway she wanted and some of the things she wore was inappropriate. I think the problem I found with the school, is they have the elementary and the high school next door but the middle school is on the other side of town and so when the superintendent and principal have to rotate between the school buildings they are not seeing everything.
Freedom for all of us is very important. I wouldn’t want to take a job where I would have to keep my thoughts and feeling completely to myself. I know that I have to have guidelines were it deals with the school district but, my personal life is my personal life and I would want someone to tell me how to think. I’m glad we have rights such as what to wear, but I’m also glad they have some control. I think it is important to dress appropriate and my appropriate may not be someone else’s appropriate. Common sense should tell someone that it should not be distracting or inappropriate for the students. For me hills and a dress doesn’t help me sit on the floor with my students while teaching them. I shouldn’t be in a short skirt or shorts that show distracting parts. I do believe that my privacy should be kept. I think it is important to maintain yourself as a professional but I also believe that my home life is just that. I chose to divorce my husband, while some may not agree, I wouldn’t want that to be why someone didn’t hire me or chose to get rid of me. I also believe that certain parts of your home life should stay at home. I’m thankful for rights, rights that we as a unity can address and have changed if we all agree in majority.
Jennifer P. I agree with your comment sometimes our personal life should be left personal and sometimes we display things that we forget will be noticeable to children especially teens. I don't think any child should really know a teachers sexual preference. We need to have our rights but we also need to use discretion. Not every parent is going to agree with your choices, so it's better not to allow them into your personal life. This is another reason I'm sure they don't want you too allow your students onto your Facebook accounts.
This chapter was definitely informative, as well as interesting towards our future's. I personally feel as a U.S. citizen, it's important to use freedom within our everyday lives, with appropriate limits. Just like anything, there needs to be a balance-not too much one way or the other. I feel that in order to be productive in a classroom setting it's VERY important to respect yourself in all ways, as well as your students. Going into the education field, we all know how critical the public can be. For example, I can remember being amazed at the fact that my 4th grade teacher shopped at the same grocery store that my parents did. It was equivalent to seeing a celerity when I was a young child. Therefore, we all know we, as future educators, are almost put on some sort of "higher standard" in order to portray a positive role model for our students and students to come. Not that I have anything to hide, but for this reason, I personally would prefer to teach in a local community NOT close to where I live. Along with this idea, I do not personally have any social networking pages. I used to, but being encouraged by professors and local elementary school teachers to get rid of or "hide" these pages, such as Facebook, allowed for me to have another prospective. This idea was directed to just me personally, but for ALL education majors. To me, it's not worth the hassle or risk. I have had professors discuses situations where teachers have been FIRED over social networking sites and outbursts. Again, to me, it's just not worth the risk. On the other hand, I also know teachers who add their students on the social networking sites. This is taking it to a whole other level. It's one thing to me, to have a social networking account or site, but a whole other to accept friend requests from students. I am not saying this is 100% wrong, I just don't think it's worth the risk. Especially if the students are elementary age students. What if a student asks or says an inappropriate question or word on your social networking site??? It's not worth the risk-period! Overall, being a positive role model no matter what is important for ourselves as individuals, as well as for our future students.
his chapter was definitely informative, as well as interesting towards our future's. I personally feel as a U.S. citizen, it's important to use freedom within our everyday lives, with appropriate limits. Just like anything, there needs to be a balance-not too much one way or the other. I feel that in order to be productive in a classroom setting it's VERY important to respect yourself in all ways, as well as your students. Going into the education field, we all know how critical the public can be. For example, I can remember being amazed at the fact that my 4th grade teacher shopped at the same grocery store that my parents did. It was equivalent to seeing a celebrity when I was a young child. Therefore, we all know we, as future educators, are almost put on some sort of "higher standard" in order to portray a positive role model for our students and students to come. Not that I have anything to hide, but for this reason, I personally would prefer to teach in a local community NOT close to where I live. Along with this idea, I do not personally have any social networking pages. I used to, but being encouraged by professors and local elementary school teachers to get rid of or "hide" these pages, such as Facebook, allowed for me to have another prospective. This idea was directed to just me personally, but for ALL education majors. To me, it's not worth the hassle or risk. I have had professors discuses situations where teachers have been FIRED over social networking sites and outbursts. Again, to me, it's just not worth the risk. On the other hand, I also know teachers who add their students on the social networking sites. This is taking it to a whole other level. It's one thing to me, to have a social networking account or site, but a whole other to accept friend requests from students. I am not saying this is 100% wrong, I just don't think it's worth the risk. Especially if the students are elementary age students. What if a student asks or says an inappropriate question or word on your social networking site??? It's not worth the risk-period! Overall, being a positive role model no matter what is important for ourselves as individuals, as well as for our future students.
This chapter was definitely informative, as well as interesting towards our future's. I personally feel as a U.S. citizen, it's important to use freedom within our everyday lives, with appropriate limits. Just like anything, there needs to be a balance-not too much one way or the other. I feel that in order to be productive in a classroom setting it's VERY important to respect yourself in all ways, as well as your students. Going into the education field, we all know how critical the public can be. For example, I can remember being amazed at the fact that my 4th grade teacher shopped at the same grocery store that my parents did. It was equivalent to seeing a celebrity when I was a young child. Therefore, we all know we, as future educators, are almost put on some sort of "higher standard" in order to portray a positive role model for our students and students to come. Not that I have anything to hide, but for this reason, I personally would prefer to teach in a local community NOT close to where I live. Along with this idea, I do not personally have any social networking pages. I used to, but being encouraged by professors and local elementary school teachers to get rid of or "hide" these pages, such as Facebook, allowed for me to have another prospective. This idea was not directed to just me personally, but for ALL education majors. To me, it's not worth the hassle or risk. I have had professors discuses situations where teachers have been FIRED over social networking sites and outbursts. Again, to me, it's just not worth the risk. On the other hand, I also know teachers who add their students on the social networking sites. This is taking it to a whole other level. It's one thing to me, to have a social networking account or site, but a whole other to accept friend requests from students. I am not saying this is 100% wrong, I just don't think it's worth the risk. Especially if the students are elementary age students. What if a student asks or says an inappropriate question or word on your social networking site??? It's not worth the risk-period! Overall, being a positive role model no matter what is important for ourselves as individuals, as well as for our future students.
I feel the same way with the idea of things such as religion. It's important to have our own views and opinions as individuals, but inside and outside the school building there is a fine line. I think it's crucial to respect and be open minded to all students views as well. For example, with the holidays... I think if one point-of-view is brought up, such as Santa Claus, then ALL points-of-view should be introduced as well. It's got to be ALL or NOTHING.
FHSU does a great job at preparing us for what is covered in chapter 10 - teacher freedoms. Disposition has been addressed many times in every class that I have attended. The point is that we are expected to be role models. And by that I mean role models in a non biased way. I know that the biggest obstacle I will have is not sharing my faith. I hope to be in a school district that is lenient with religion. My husband teaches and coaches in a small school district that I would categorize as lenient. Before and after every football game a student leads the team to say the Lord's Prayer. I'm so grateful that the students participate in this. However, I completely understand the religious views discussed and would never want any student to feel left out in my classroom because they are not a Christian. I think much like most of the law book, balance is key.
Chapter 10 hit on some important facts. Teachers have some restrictions on their freedoms due to their role in the community as role models in the community. The importance of dress and grooming is addressed in this chapter, and it talks about how some other freedoms are limited, such as freedom of speech and freedom of association, and even freedom of religion. Freedom of religion is protected outside of the classroom, but in the classroom, it is important to be careful not to push religious views on students. This chapter was really enlightening for me and drove home the whole concept of teachers as “professionals” who are seen as having public prestige, such as a Doctor. This chapter really made me think about public behavior, speech and even dress. We talk about the professional dress part often in classes but the book addressed that many schools have a written dress code in that their teachers are expected to adhere to.
@ Jennifer P I not sure what was ruled on the "Pledge of Allegiance." However I have subbed at a few different schools. It seems to be different depending on the school. At one of the largest schools in Kansas the work "God" is left out. However in most of the smaller schools I have subbed in the still cite the pledge with the word "God." So, maybe it is up to the individual districts?? Good question!
Rachel Curry~ I really hear what you are saying about perhaps not living in the community that you teach in. I think there are advantages to that. I try to remember that my life is on display all the time, but it's hard!
I agree, it is hard! Much easier said then done, I am sure. I just want to be as prepared as possible. Not putting myself in a potential risk is ideal.
This chapter was more fun for me to read than the last because I feel teachers are expected to look and act a certain way but this chapter detailed on their freedom of expression. When I begin teaching I want to encourage my students to use self expression. I want them to feel completely themselves in my classroom so they can relax learn. I also want to be comfortable myself in my classroom as well. I think that dress and hygiene are extremely important and that you can still express yourself through professional dress. I also think teachers can express their views and beliefs just as anyone else can, they just have to do it in a professional manner. The eight teacher freedoms touched on many actions teachers may or may not partake in and I think it's important that all professional educators pay close attention to that. Like I said, I'm a supporter of self expression but it must be done so in a professional manner. I think all teachers can be unique and still express themselves, they just have to do it with a little more thought.
It seems like teachers are so closely watched in the community because they're around children and like you said, role models for them. I think if someone is working toward becoming a teacher they must realize that they're are some guidelines to how they can express themselves. That being said I don't think teachers should feel limited but just more cautious in the ways they do express themselves.
When I had my first internship class, last semester, I originally thought the discussion about dress and other professional mannerism seemed a bit unnecessary. However, I am an older student, who previously held a professional position in a company where I had to wear suits each day. However, a lot has changed in the past. When I am out and about, I often see individuals working with piercings, tattoos, etc. When I see them, I think about how unprofessional it looks. As teachers, we ARE role models for our students. We never know when we may see them. It may be at the store, at a ballgame or at the park. We do have the freedoms of speech, expression, religion, etc. However, we need to evaluate and consider our actions and how that reflects and appears to others who see us. This being students AND their parents.
Rachel; Unlike you, I enjoy working in the same school district where I live. My sons attend that school and I am active with many school activities. The kids all know me. Some may think that this is a disadvantage, but in most ways, I see it as an advantage. Eventually, this is the school district that I would like to work for.
As teachers we are definitely looked upon as role models and held to very high standards by the people in the community, which makes it even more important for us to act as professionals. Chapter 10 which discussed teacher freedoms was very interesting and I learned a lot of great information. First of all, I think that it is awesome that we all have the right to freedom of expression, although as educators, we have to use some discretion. The text made it very clear that teachers are not allowed to preach to their students about certain issues that they are passionate about but that they are welcome to speak as a private citizen about such issues outside of the school. I think it’s important for teachers to have academic freedom so that they are able to implement some of their interests into the classroom, but they must make sure that the material they are presenting is at the appropriate age level of their students. Freedom of association, the right to privacy and religious freedom are also very important freedoms that teachers should be well informed about. Teachers are human and I believe they should be given the same rights as anyone else and their private lives do not really define the kind of teacher that they are. As long as the teachers are not discussing these issues with their students or other people at the school, there should not be an issue, whether they are in a same sex relationship or a Christian.
I agree with you that it’s crazy to hear about all of the teachers getting fired over things that they post on social networking sites. I personally don’t think it’s a crime to interact with your friends on Facebook, but when these teachers start adding the student’s and their parents, that’s going a bit too far. They need to stay professional and that does not include playing Farmville with their students. Everything you post on the internet will be there forever and sometimes people need to be reminded of this fact.
I feel that we as teachers are watched very carefully because what we do effects our students. This chapter was about teacher freedoms. I feel it is important for teachers to be able to express themselves and it was interesting to find out that teachers are able to do that, but within limits. I agree that everyone had their opinions, but as a professional educator we have to know what is appropriate to talk about and what isn't. I feel the bottom line is if for some reason in your head you feel it isn't right don't say it. If you have to sit there and think about what you are about to say don't say it. The book mentioned the "role-model image". I feel that is important for teachers to remember in any situation whether they are at school or not. We as educators need to remember that our students look to us for guidence and what we do in and out of the classroom affects them positively and negatively. I noticed dress and grooming was brought up in this chapter. Dr. Walizer talked about that a lot during internship. I don't feel it is that difficult to shower and stayed groomed and dress appropriately. Once you become a full time educator I don't feel the habits we learned in internship should go out the window.
Kim, I agree with your whole post. It's true we never know when we will see our students outside of school. When I was in elementary school I saw my 3rd grade teacher at a restraunt. I thought it was the weirdest thing at the time, but it happens. I also agree with the evaluation of what we are about to say. I stated that if we have to question or think to hard about what we are about to say then don't say it at all.
This chapter brings outlines the freedoms we will have as teachers. The law guarantees us freedoms in our personal lives, speech religion and so on, so long as our actions do not interfere with the school or our ability to teach. I think it is important to keep in mind, though, that even if what we are doing is legal, it may not be wise. For instance, there have been a few issues in my community involving teachers having extramarital affairs. These issues do not affect their ability to teach, but it sure changes the way the parents view them. A teacher cannot be fired for something like this, but I have heard parents state they didn't feel that a "person like that" could do a good job teaching their child. I am glad to know the laws regarding the freedoms I will have as a teacher, but I realize that I will be held to a different standard in the eyes of the community and must act accordingly regardless of those laws.
Kim Markham, I too think an understanding that teachers need to dress professionally should come naturally. Most people in professional careers are required to do so. Teachers are no different. I also wanted to say that I enjoy working in the district I live in too. I get to know the students in the school and their parents, and I get hugs pretty much daily when I walk around town or take my daughter to school. This makes me feel good, and it helps me to build positive professional relationships that I am hoping will help me get hired here in the future.
Before reading Chapter 10, I had never given much thought to “teacher freedoms” and how they applied to me. I suppose I had always given in to the “teacher as a role-model” theory and have always been conscious of the image I projected. However, even though I had not given much thought to these freedoms and what they mean to me, it is good to know that I do have certain rights and freedoms which are protected if I ever need to exercise them. I think many of these rights are important in order to not “stifle” teachers, who are individuals with thoughts and beliefs that may not always coincide with their school districts way of thinking. I also agree with the point that teachers (if speaking outside of the school environment) should preface their comments with a statement that they are speaking as an individual and not as a school employee. Teachers are seen as representatives of their schools and if they are not speaking for their school, then they must make that clear. Another freedom I hadn’t thought about was the teacher’s freedom to run for office or work on a campaign. I think this is an important freedom to allow teachers to have, as long as (as the text mentioned) the classroom isn’t used as a political forum. I was a little surprised to read about how religious dress isn’t a protected freedom. I can understand the reasoning as to why it is not, but also understand why there is a debate as to whether or not this should be allowed. I was also surprised to read that until 2003 homosexuality wasn’t protected under the right to privacy. I understand why this could be controversial, but it is still a little unbelievable to me that someone would have to pretend to be someone they aren’t in order to protect their job. It seemed to me that a lot of these areas were “gray area’s” and that if in doubt it be best to ere on the side of caution. I’m glad that I have this as a resource to refer back to and will use it if I am ever in doubt on what is a protected freedom and what is not.
I agree that teachers are role models and because of this should be positive examples to their students. I however, do not necessarily agree about facebook. I tend to think that this is something that depends on how you use it. I have a facebook, but for years I have had it private, only my friends can see my pictures or what I write (not even friends of friends, just the people I am friends with). If someone looks me up, all they see is my name, picture (which is always appropriate), and my husbands name. I use facebook to stay connected with my family and many friends who live far away. My newest nephew was born a couple weeks ago and I was able to see pictures of him almost right away and share them with other people. Facebook can be a positive thing. I am also friends with many teachers that I have worked with, who have facebook. I don't feel the way I use facebook puts me at any risk for getting fired. Many of the teachers who have been fired have said or posted inappropriate things and broadcast them to anyone who wanted to see. I have no intentions of doing this. Maybe it is one of those gray areas, and "ere on the side of caution." But I have also worked in a professional environment for a few years now, which has extended to facebook and have never had a problem. Again, I just think it's your intentions and how you use it.
I think that Chapter 10 can be summed up by tip number five at the end of the chapter. It says, “ exercise your personal rights in ways that account for the sensitive nature of your position as a role model for students and the integrity of the teaching profession as a whole.” As teachers, we maintain our constitutional rights like everyone else does. However, because of our position and public connections we must be extra careful about what we say and what we do. Teachers are entitled to their own opinions on issues, but these are not to be professed in the classroom or to be viewed as statements endorsed by the school district. This chapter reminds me of two areas we often talk about in internships, professionalism and dispositions. These are both extremely important to the teaching profession and should be maintained by all teachers.
I like your tip about what a teacher should say, if you think there’s a chance it shouldn’t be said, don’t say it! I do not feel that there is anything important enough to say that is worth losing your job or license over. I also agree with your statement that teachers need to remember if they are in school or not. However, even outside of school we need to be aware of what we are saying and doing.
I like that these laws are in place. I feel that teachers should be role models for our children. I personally would not want a teacher to press their political or religious views on my child and therefore I am thankful that these laws are in place. I am one who has strong religious beliefs and was concerned about how quiet I would need to be about my beliefs. This chapter helped me to understand the limitations and they aren't anything that I should be worried about. I do understand that I can still have my strong beliefs without bringing it up in my future classroom.
In response to Allison G., I like the quote that you pulled out of the chapter, "exercise your personal rights in ways that account for the sensitive nature of your position as a role model for students and the integrity of the teaching profession as a whole." I like this quote. You are correct, it pretty much does sum up the whole chapter. We do have personal rights, and a part of our job is to be a role model for our students without imposing on their personal rights to believe what they want to believe as well as the have the political views that they want to. Great quote Allison!
I really liked Chapter 10 which covered Teacher Freedoms. Before reading this chapter I was aware that teachers had to be very careful of what they say around students in the classroom and outside. I think it is important for teachers to realize that their words and behavior outside of the classroom can affect their students. They need to be careful that their actions are judged and that they have impressionable students.
In response to Kymberly R: I agree. As a future teacher and a parent someday I want the teachers I interact with to be good role models and help encourage students to be who they are, and not have their opinions forced on the students.
The chapter over Teacher Freedoms has been by far my favorite chapter to read in our school law book. This is extremely beneficial information for each of us as we continue or career into education. It is wonderful to have to the exact information on the laws of freedom of expression, political rights, our right to privacy and our religious freedoms when each of us becomes teachers in the classroom. Most of the information I read I was already familiar with having worked in a school setting for 6 years. What is interesting to find out is how much “power” school districts actually have over our own personal rights. I believe the freedom that gets looked upon most these days is a person’s right to privacy. With Facebook, Twitter, and all of the other social networks that have become available to people this seems to be the freedom that is affected the most at this day and age. It seems as though even with the right to privacy freedom numerous teachers are losing their jobs in regards to how they conduct themselves on these social networking sites. Teachers are role models to children and should always remember that even with their right to privacy, they are considered to be “pillars of the community” and everything they do is still watched by the public.
What I found interesting while reading this chapter was the things that were said about academic freedoms. Reading this one would think that if a teacher has academic freedom they would be able to teach whatever they wanted. But this is not true. A teacher is still required to teach to the standards that are provided but they are able to give the students freedom to research and learn what they want about the subject. I like knowing what I am able to do as a teacher and the freedoms that I am able to have.
I agree with you about what you said about what teachers can say. We do have the same rights as everyone else, but we are in a dangerous position. We can tell students where we stand on certain things but we cannot persuade them to think like us. That is something that cant be forgotten. It will be hard to remember this but in time it will get easier.
Teacher freedoms are a touchy subject in my opinion. There are so many things that I think teachers should be allowed to do while teaching that are definite no's in the real world. For example we have the freedom of speech but only to a certain extent inside the classroom. It makes sense but it would be so nice to be able to say what we believe sometimes instead of only what the books say. Something I think differently is outside involvement. Outside involvement shouldn't really matter for teachers-they should be able to have their own lives but it is important to remember that their are little eyes everywhere watching and taking not of what we do and do not do. We have to be an example to the younger generations.
Reply to Jordan Ottley: I agree that it is nice to know what we can and cannot do as teachers. It really puts our jobs into perspective because we know that there are so many things that we have to teach. I like what you said about students having the opportunity to research outside of what we teach them. That makes things so much different and maybe they will go somewhere that we encourage.
Chapter 10 is a great chapter and was probably the most easy to read and relate to of all of these law modules thus far. While we, as teachers, have the same rights (on a limited basis) as others, I felt that the sentences on page 147 summed it up best, “Although teachers enjoy these rights, they should exercise them with discretion in light of the nature and importance of their positions as public employees. Further, they should be concerned with the “role-model image” they project and the impact of their actions on impressionable young children.” I really do agree that we must realize that our life is under a microscope as teachers. I was just attending a volleyball game for my daughter yesterday when I came across a student from the school that I work at as I was leaving. I never would have expected to see this child there, so imagine how I’d have felt had I yelled inappropriately or behaved or dressed in a way that was inappropriate when I came across this young man. This is the profession I chose. I CHOSE to know that I am constantly going to be watched and looked upon as a role model. If my rights to dress a certain way, behave in a certain way, or speak about my religious or political beliefs in a certain way are limited, it is because I chose a profession that requires that. If I don’t like it, I also have the right to choose a different profession.
NO…it is not just you (in regard to feeling let down by a teacher if they drink or smoke)!!! I will never forget a time when I was with my first grade daughter and we pulled up to a parking spot at the grocery store. She looked to the side to find the first grade teacher from the other classroom of her school parked next to us. She was so excited to jump out to see her – right up to the point that the teacher got out with a cigarette in her hand and continued to smoke it all the way to the door. I realize the teacher has that right, but my daughter was shattered. We’ve always raised our children to understand that smoking is a bad choice – and here was a teacher that she really looked up to, smoking. Even if we teachers have the same freedoms as others, it is so important for us to realize that we have chosen to be a role model for our students by choosing to be a teacher. Anyone who complains about that is very similar to the movie star who chooses that life and then complains about the paparazzi. Some things just go with the territory!
Betsy F.- I am with you on the fact that teacher's lives are under a microscope. From now on, teacher education candidates need to watch what we say and do, because it might come back to hurt us!
Chapter 10 is one of the most important chapters in this book. From now on we as teacher candidates need to watch what we say and do. For example, I had a friend post on Facebook a couple weeks ago that she was at our local coffee shop. She heard 4 USD 480 teachers sitting there gossiping about another USD 480 teacher and then about some of their students. That right there cannot happen! It is so important to keep the confidentiality of our students private. I know if the wrong parent heard that, those teachers would be in a bad situation right now.
The one thing that really got me in this Chapter was at the beginning when it was talking about the freedom of expression. Everyone in this country has the right to freedom of expression, but everyone also has to be careful about how far they take that right. Teachers, from what I have seen, have to be the most careful about their freedom of expression because if something is said around students then the students might go home and tell their parents that same thing and it could get blown completely out of context, especially with the younger elementary students. Or you could be saying something to one person and somebody only overhears part of the conversation so it gets taken way out of proportion in that way. I love my right to freedom of expression, but I am careful about how, when, and where I say and do things.
Betsy F I completely agree with that statement from page 147 also. We have those same rights but we have to be careful how we exercise those rights because we as educators are held to strict standards and stepping to far outside the line of those standards can be costly. Mostly because we are around parents children five days a week and have certain things that are expected of us.
Just like the teacher has expectations for their students. This chapter shows us what the school system expectations are for the teacher. I had to read this for myself. I am a very conservative christian. I have to counsel with my children's teacher every year about our religious freedoms. I have worked in the school system before studing to become a teacher. I have never had someone tell me to clock in work and clock out being who I really am. I wear clothing based on my beliefs every day it is consisted professional clothing. I don't bring it up but if a student asks me right out a question I answer it. My answer is a very brief fact.
I really enjoyed chapter 10 because offers something we can all relate to. Most of us will all be in the teacher field and I think it is a great idea that we had to read about the teachers freedoms in this section. Becoming a teacher to me, is very intimidating. There is so many laws and obligations that go along with being a teacher. Like the book stated, not only should you know what to do inside the classroom, you have to be careful outside as well. Social media is a big controversy going around right now with all the blogging and facebooking happening. I think as long as you are smart, you will be just fine. Don't do anything that would even make you second guess yourself when it comes to Facebook, etc. The freedom of expression was very interesting to me as well! Most school systems have similar expectations of teachers.
Cassandra S--I also believe chapter 10 was most important chapter so far. Like I also said in my post, teachers need to be careful with all of this social networking happening. I believe if it makes you even second guess yourself for a second, you probably shouldn't be doing it. You are hearing more and more Facebook stories including teachers today in the media, teachers must be careful!
I like what you have to say about dressing appropriately. I don;t think we focus near enough on this topic! It's funny because as you said Dr. Walizer really stresses on this, and when I was in my intern class I observed teachers walking down the halls. You wouldn't believe the number of tattoos on the ankles, tank tops, and regular flip flops I saw! These were elementary teachers too. I though it was sad that I was in their school and looked better than they did!
This had great information about teacher's freedoms. I agree with other posts made that becoming a teacher can be very intimidating. It does make some things hard because facebook, for example, opens many doors to many conversations whether they are positive or negative. I am sure when some have bad days you just want to vent, but you can't! Things get turned around in the blink of an eye even when you have no intention on saying anything hurtful. I have worked with special needs children for a number of years now plus my mother has taught it fr 35 years. I have excellent confidentiality skills and have a great understanding of the definition! I just always think before I speak to make sure nothing I say can go against me. I also try to put myself as one from a parents view. I am a mother as well so these two things help me really watch what I have to say!
I really liked this chapter. I always felt like teachers were held to a higher standard because of their influence on their students. Teachers have to be constantly aware of their actions, who they associate with, what they wear, etc. I know with today's social networking, facebook for example, teachers have to be extra careful about what information and pictures they share on their pages and the internet.
I always wondered about what rights teachers have when it comes to wearing religious clothing in the classroom. I went to school with a Muslim student many years ago and wondered if Muslim teachers had the right to wear their hijab in the classroom. I don't really know how I feel about it being up to the school to decide weather or not this is appropriate. I understand that we can influence our students, but I think we still deserve the right not to violate our religion.
While I too believe taking away our right to have facebook violates our first amendment rights I have seen many facebook pages where public school teachers post pictures of their unprofessional, inappropriate activities while while under the influence of alcohol. I think in many cases disallowing the use of facebook by public school teachers protects them from damaging their reputations, even if they are responsible while under the influence because a picture says a thousand words.
"Teachers must also be reminded of the professional nature of their position and the impact of their behavior has on children, who often view them as role models." Teachers and parents raise a kid together. There is a big difference in the roles of each of these and I am not saying that parents cannot teach their child the same way a classroom teacher could. However, teacher's are an outside the home source for children to admire and strive to be like. I can look back at some of my teachers and think about characteristics that made them who they are and ways they helped mold me into who I am. As teacher's, we must be professional but view ourselves as above anyone but willing to do anything that may come our way.
Law Module 10 on teacher freedoms was interesting but scary at the same time. I think we all know that as teachers, we are in the watchful eye of the community at all times. Not only do we have to set an example for our students, but for the parents, grandparents, preachers and all others concerned with our students. Growing up and still living in a small community I am well aware of the issues that a small comment can make. It seems as though some community members are starving for information, and with only one small comment the issue becomes HUGE! It is comforting to know that we are protected and have some teacher freedom!
I agree that as teacher we have to set standards. I am just not sure where to the line is drawn. We are still individuals and must be able to live our lives. Don't get me wrong, I am not saying that it is okay for us to be wild on the town, but we also are entitled to some freedoms.
You are right, it is not up to anyone to decide what religious clothing anyone wears. The goal is not to influence others and promote that type of lifestyle on our students. Teacher freedom is a good protection for this.
Stephanie "but I think we still deserve the right not to violate our religion." Thank goodness I live and work in a small community because if I were told by an administrator I could not wear a cross, I would probably tell them.. ;) no, seriously, I was told by a student yesterday "We always have time for church" when I told him I did not have time to participate in the Christmas Cantata. If I couldn't wear my cross or my religion, I would have to go somewhere that I could.
Stephanie, If I did not make sense it is because half way through writing the post I realized what a good sermon that would be. (I used to preach) My point was, I live my faith, I can not just set it aside.
I have spent the past 17 years (or so) living in a fish bowl. My husband is a minister and I preached for 10 years. So to find out teachers also live in fish bowls was not such a shock. 30 years ago, I might have thought WOW but since living in a world where people scrutinize your every move, from what you wear to what you do, say, or sit, the expectations, restrictions, and rights of our educators is not such a big shock. I am not sticking my nose up in the air but if we only held everyone up to such standards in our lives we would probably not have the crime or the social problems we have today! Personally, I like the 'square' life of a preachers wife and teacher. It is a life that I can take pride in and help others in.
Chapter ten, which discusses teacher freedoms, was of particular importance to me. I am somewhat concerned that by taking the position as a teacher my professional obligations might obscure my constitutional freedoms. I am personally a very politically active person, who is fairly vocal about my opinions and as I understand this chapter, I will not have to forego my outspoken demeanor. I must just consider and know that my personal convictions should not be discussed within a classroom or on school time. As I understand it I may engage in activities like hanging a sign in my yard regarding an election- but I am not allowed to hang the same sign in my classroom. I also understand that I must preface public statements by saying that the statements I am making are as a private citizen and not as a representative of the school or district.. This chapter also answered a question I had been wondering in the back of my mind. I had wondered as to whether Muslim women were allowed to were the hijab (the traditional headdress) while teaching. According to the text it is consider to be an overt statement about your religion and probably not a protected religious freedom when wore inside a classroom. However; I also inferred from the text that as long as the community and the school did not mind it would probably be acceptable. Chapter ten was pretty significant to my understanding of where my rights end and the rights of my students begin, I was thankful to have a brief chapter over those topics.
ReplyDeleteNow this chapter I found intriguing. As a teacher we are responsible for our speech and conduct inside and outside the school building. I have recently seen several cases where teachers have lost their jobs for pictures or speech they have used on facebook. Social media is a major concern for school districts and how teachers present themselves is a reflection on the school district directly.
ReplyDeleteI find the issue of dress code and personal grooming to be slightly humorous because I see teachers coming to school in inappropriate clothing all the time. Professional dress is simple and I am not sure how administrations can get the point across any clearer. As a Para we are required to view a short video on appropriate dress code tips before entering the classroom. In my mind, to spend money on this issue is outrageous but necessary evil because I still see individuals coming to school in mini-skirts and cleavage showing tops. Great chapter with good information about our rights and more importantly our responsibilities as teachers to ask and dress as if our mothers were watching.
In response to Jena S,
ReplyDeleteI agree that educating on appropriate dress and professionalism is a necessary evil. My husband happened to enter the room when I was watching the lecture with the example of inappropriate dress- he said , “Is that really necessary?” I had to tell him it was. I think that many first time teachers are just entering the workforce for the first time, and for many this is their first ‘real’ job. Part of being a professional is carrying that image to the community. That is where I found you post interesting, when you addressed social media. The thing that is so hard to control is when other people may access to your pictures and tag you in them. I think I’m fairly fortunate that most of my friends are moms and wives and would never post anything to questionable, but it is something that is becoming very difficult these days. I also think it will be interesting to see where social media disputes advance to.
When looking at chapter 10 of the law module book I found information about teacher freedoms that I didn’t know before. Academic freedom doesn’t mean that a teacher can teach his or her students anything that they want to it means that a teacher can provide the students with freedom of inquiry, research and discussion of various ideas. Academic freedom still means that a teacher needs to teach material that is within the students’ grade level standards as well as is at the correct maturity level of the students both intellectually and socially. As far as political rights are concerned teachers have the same right as public citizens but the political activities such as campaigning and running for public office need to be conducted away from the school and not interfere with the teaching process. This chapter also talked about professional dress and a teacher needs to look professional at all times in the school building and set high standards for your image as a teacher. Lastly a side note of religious freedom it is very important that as a teacher we don’t push our own religion onto our students and we need to remain neutral as far as religion is concerned when teaching in our classroom.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Adrianne Hoefler
ReplyDeleteI think that it is great that you are able to understand your teacher freedoms as far as your constitutional freedoms are concerned. I also learned that it is ok to put a sign for a election in your own yard you just can’t bring the sign into the school building or your own classroom which if you think about it it makes sense. Also that it is a very good point that you bring up about Muslim women being able to wear the hijab and I got the same type of response out of the reading that you did. I feel that it would definitely depend on the community and the school and if they didn’t see any major problems concerning wearing the hijab then I think that the school would allow it. When I was reading this chapter it sounded like the school building can or can’t allow it depending on the community views and the views of the school on religion. Lastly I also was able to see where my freedoms begin or end in respect to my future teaching career.
Out of this whole chapter I only want to discuss a couple sections. The first being dress and appearance of teachers. I had a teacher who looked absolutely unprofessional to a tee. He had long, gray hair that he never brushed. a matching gray, furry beard to go with. His clothes always looked dirty and had holes in some. He never brushed what little teeth he had and smoked like a train between classes. It was unbelievable. It took I had to go into class and focus or respect anything he had to say. To top it off he violated his right of speech and opinion when he began preaching to us about our government and various social and religious matters. You could get him off science in a matter of seconds if you brought up a current issue of politics. I lost faith in our school board members at that time and stopped being proud of where I came from.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Booke M,
ReplyDeleteYou last couple sentences really caught my attention. I guess for me this is going to be an issue. It’s not that I will be pushing it on my students or forcing them to listen or practice or anything like that. I understand the trouble I could get in my even mentioning God my room. Like I said I don’t want to push it on my students but I also want it to be known and not just to them but also my colleagues, where I stand, next in Christ. That is who I am and how I live my life so I can’t see myself pretending or just shutting my “God” button off during class. Again, I won’t push a topic on them or begin the discussion and I will probably suggest we move on if it does get brought up but they will know God is important to me.
I found chapter 10 to be very informative. I think that it is good to know what you can’t do but it is also good to know what freedoms you do have. I think that it is great that schools allow teachers to have religious freedom as long as it doesn’t affect instruction in the classroom. One of my elementary teachers was a Jehova’s witness member. She never once spoke about it in class, but she was never in school on holidays since she didn’t celebrate them the same as most of our class did. I really like that teachers are allowed academic freedom as well. Of course we have standards and curriculum to follow, but it is nice to know that if we deem something academically appropriate, we can teach it. I think that proper dress and appearance is very important as well. We need to make sure that we are setting the best example possible for our students and dress is one way to do this. I think that we also need to make sure that our appearance is comfortable as well. Clothes and shoes that don’t fit right could cause major problems in the classroom. I completely agree with the importance of freedom of speech but that we need to monitor what is said outside of the classroom as well. You never really know who is related to the student in which you are speaking about so you have to be very careful to follow the rules of confidentiality.
ReplyDeleteKatie- that's unfortunate that you had to experience that. I have never had any teachers like that. I would think it would be hard to gain student's respect if you don't appear to respect yourself!
ReplyDeleteThe first guide they have listed under teacher freedoms is “Teachers do not lose their constitutional rights when they enter the educational profession. Within reasonable limits, they posses the same constitutional rights as do other citizens.” So, with that being said, we really do not have the same rights. I feel as if chapter ten was telling me, as a teacher, you have your rights, but those rights are now under school district and are even stricter. For example, under “freedom of expression” it says teachers have the right under the First Amendment, but it is limited, so that means teachers really do not have that right. I am not complaining about how strict and limited teacher freedom is, but I think the text shouldn’t say “you have the same rights, they are just limited”, because really they are not the same rights if they are limited. I have always viewed my teachers with respect. I often thought of them as perfect and always wanted to make them proud of me. When I see a teacher drink alcohol or smoke, I feel let down. Is that just me?
ReplyDeleteIn reply to Kristle: I like your comment on how we as teachers must remember our confidentiality. Often we are so caught up in a conversation or our opinions we forget what we are saying and things slip out. I also like your ideas about dressing professionally and comfortable. A professionally look doesn't have to be painful :)
ReplyDeleteThis chapter on freedoms for teachers was another interesting one. On one hand it is saying we as teachers still have our constitutional rights and freedoms and on the other hand I feel like they are saying “but we are watching you”. I believe we do have right but as an educational professional we are held at a higher standard than others. I believe it is sometimes best to just stay neutral on controversial subjects rather than stand out and make a scene. My dad was a coach and teacher for 40 years and he would not buy alcohol at the local liquor store because he believed it showed a bad example, so he would buy it in a nearby town where no one know his name. There is also the issue of to facebook or not to facebook…what to do? I heard a while back that a teacher could be losing her job and possibly her license for her status post that she put on facebook. YIKES! I think it really just comes down to holding yourself accountable and at another level than those around you. We need to be setting a great example for our students and you never know when someone might be watching or listening.
ReplyDelete@ Kristie C
ReplyDeleteYou picked some great points out of the reading Kristie! I like the story you shared about religion and your teacher being a Jehovah’s Witness. I do believe that there is a time and place for religion and it is not in schools. People should have their rights to practice whatever religious freedoms they would like, but I don’t feel it should be discussed in length in the school and that is what this law is saying.
Chapter 10 was very interesting to me because I have always had questions about the rights of teachers. Obviously, teachers are citizens of our country, and enjoy the same basic freedoms as any other citizen. If it wasn’t this way, it would have gone against what our country was founded for. But at the same time, teachers must “tow the line” on their behavior. Even though they have the same rights, I believe that teachers should be more reserved with their behavior because it is ultimately in the best interest of the students.
ReplyDeleteIn my hometown recently, there were several letters to the editor in our local newspaper asking our superintendent to resign. This continued on for weeks, when all the sudden, a letter from a high school teacher was in there with the same intent. As I read the article, I kept thinking that this teacher was awfully gutsy because she’s most likely going to get fired over this. She never did because which still surprises me, even after reading this chapter. She was openly disruptive to the school system. If my school district would have fired her, I do not think she would have had any ground to stand on.
In response to Shawna W-
ReplyDeleteI think that you hit the nail on the head when you said that teachers are held to a higher stand than a person in another profession. For the best interest of the students, most times it is best to not let your opinion be known or to be neutral because it can disrupt the classroom. Students may not have an opinion on what you are saying, but you better believe that their parents will. You mentioned going into liquor stores or in a bar. Again, although we are grown adults and have the right to do that, it is best not too. In my opinion, by becoming a teacher, you choose to give up these rights.
To Adrianne: I liked your post about being outspoken. I too am a very outspoken person. However, what has helped me filter what is appropriate and not appropriate to discuss in a classroom is my children. I think about would I want a teacher to share their personal beliefs with my children. I think if it does not have to do with teaching than it should not be discussed in the classroom. I don't want a teacher discussing their religious, sexual or political beliefs with my children. That is the job of the parents.
ReplyDeleteI think as teachers we need to remember the public role we play to so many people. I know as a parent I am concerned about the teachers who are with my children everyday. In our internships we have been taught about how to act and dress professionally. I can imagine walking into a classroom and seeing my son's teacher tattooed all over or facial piercings. I believe in freedom of expression, but it belongs elsewhere not in the classroom with impressionable children. As we watch the news or read the NEA magazine it seems like there is always a teacher getting in trouble for something they posted on a social network. While this is a private activity a teacher needs to have enough common sense to know that social networking is open to the whole world.
ReplyDeleteTo Katie C: Wow...I can not believe that teacher behaved that way. As I have went through the internships I have began to notice how some school professional dress and it is not good. I have seen tattoos, facial piercings, cleavage etc. I have made a greater effort to make sure I am well groomed.
ReplyDeleteChapter ten discusses the freedoms that teachers have. Like other citizens, teachers have the same freedoms as expressed in the Constitution. Like the chapter discusses, it is important to keep in mind that teachers are looked up to as important "role-models" in the community. There definitely is a fine line between holding a professional role in the community and expression of First Amendment Rights. Part of me says that I should be able to express myself in a manner that does not violate any laws or the Constitution. However, I do feel that as a professional, it is important to engage in activities that promote good citizenship and integrity.
ReplyDeleteI recently heard that Missouri outlawed the usage of Facebook for any of it's public school teachers. I do not agree with this because I feel as it violates my First Amendment Rights. Really, if a teacher is going to act in a lewd and lascivious way, he/she will probably do it in a not-so-public way. At least Facebook is somewhat public!
Lacey Keller
ReplyDeleteAndrew,
While not surprised that the teacher did not loose her job, I would not recommend writing a letter to the editor regarding the superintendent. This behavior probably escalated the situation and made the superintendent and teacher look foolish. As professionals, we must discuss matters in a constructive manner as to not personally attack anyone, including school officials.
I found this chapter very interesting. Teachers have the same freedoms as everyone else, but we are around children who are at a very impressionable age. It is our responsibility to make sure we are aware of what we are doing and saying at all times because sometimes students might not be ready to handle or understand what we are discussing. It must be appropriate for their grade level, intellectual, and maturity levels. This chapter also taught me that we have political rights, but they must be limited to being away from the classroom and outside the normal school day. This chapter also discusses the right to privacy, and if school officials can demonstrate that lifestyle choices adversely affects the integrity of the school, they have a case. It states that when private conduct becomes highly publicized so much that the teachers relationship and reputation with parents are impaired appropriate actions will be taken against the teacher. I am sure this is a big problem today with social media. I feel that people just put too much information out there and should know that parents, students, and other administration will be looking for this information.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Jeanette,
ReplyDeleteI am also always hearing about teachers getting into trouble for something they posted on a social network. I agree that teachers should have the right to use these networks, but as a professional you must be responsible. I just can't believe when I hear about a teacher getting fired because they put something negative about their students on a blog. What are they thinking??
This was an extremely interesting chapter. So much goes into teacher freedoms, both inside and outside of the classroom. Teachers have their lives outside and the freedoms to do what they'd like, but they also need to be conscious of what they are doing / saying and where they are. Inside the classroom we're allowed to have these freedoms but we need to make sure we are aware of our students as individuals and not to use our thoughts to sway what their thoughts and ideas are. Freedoms as a teacher also play a role in the teaching aspect of the classroom. There is curriculum to follow but there is no set way that we need to teach that curriculum. Again using a tasteful / appropriate approach will be key in this.
ReplyDeleteChapter 10 was very interesting. I have always thought it was interesting how some teachers carried themselves away from school and in school. The way I understand this is that we are professional educators. What we do matters inside or outside. Kind of like when we started our reading methods class and Dr. Walizer talks about our email names and our social networking sites. We have to watch ourselves. We have to represent our school and ourselves in a good way. We must not only represent ourselves in the way we act, but also the way we dress. The main part about this chapter is that we still have our constitutional rights.
ReplyDelete@ Shawna W.
I like the way you put this. You still have all your rights as Americans, but we are watching you. I would totally agree with this. I believe that we as educators have to be held to a different and higher standard.
In chapter 10 I found this the most interesting, as teachers we are supposed to be responsible for our actions. Things on Facebook and things you put on social networking sites can get you into trouble. There was a teacher back from my hometown that used to post things on Facebook that I didn’t think would be appropriate. Also as teachers we need to keep our pages professional. I don’t think that you should be friends with students nor their parents; I know that this can be hard if you are previously friends but you need to stay professional. I agree we need to have the freedom but you as the teacher is always in the public’s eye.
ReplyDeleteResponse to Megan B
ReplyDeleteIndeed as teachers we need to be careful, certainly teachers should not be Facebook friends with their students; unless the student is also their child, in which case they should be.
It is things like this that can complicate the matter. Additionally do you think teachers need to be careful not to be Facebook friends with other people who clearly say things that are not appropriate.
This chapter on teacher freedoms in interesting and correct, as far as it goes. As teachers we basically still have all of the same rights we had before, but we must be careful. Opinions must clearly be only the opinion of us, and must even be labeled as such. It is the labeling thing that teachers likely violate most often.
ReplyDeleteAdditionally we must also remember that our students are not as lucky, they do not maintain as many of their rights as we do.
The old lawyer that is me likes this chapter but feels that there is more that it likely should cover.
At the same time this chapter is well worth our time. Remember that a good morality clause can make a teacher feel like these freedoms are more limited then they really are. Yes, some contracts likely have a morality clause, even more likely if they have been to court in the past.
To Lindsay H:
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that we always need to watch what we put where. We are in the public eye all the time. Respecting ourselves with dress is also very important.
The book “A Teacher’s Pocket Guide to School Law 2nd Edition by Nathan L. Essex explains and examines different laws that teachers and people in general need to be aware of. Chapter ten of Essex’s book talks about different freedoms that teachers have. This chapter of the book provided me new interesting knowledge, had me reflect on my own life and made me ask questions about the book.
ReplyDeleteSomething that I learned in this chapter of the text book was that there are laws to protect teachers and what they may do in their personal lives but teachers need to remember that they are considered role models to impressionable children. What teachers do in their personal life should not interfere with their school life or affect the students.
A piece of information that made me look at my own experiences was the section on “Right to Privacy” in Essex (2011) book (Essex, 149). Essex (2011) book states that “Within the context of privacy right, teachers may exercise personal choices, which may range from living with a person of the opposite sex to other lifestyle choice” (Essex, 149). This reminded me of a physical education teacher that I had in junior high. This teacher had expressed her own personal sexual preference by displaying it on a bumper sticker on her car. It was not the lifestyle choice that bothered me, it was the uncomfortable feeling I would get when she would come into the locker room while we were changing out of our gym cloths. I almost wish I did not know about her personal life because of the way it made me feel in gym class.
A question that I had in the text was I wanted to know if anyone else remember when people wanted to band the “Pledge of Allegiance” in the classroom because it used the word “god”. What ever happened in that matter?
References:
Essex, N. L. (2011). Teacher’s Pocket Guide to School Law (2nd ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson.
Law Modules Chapter 10-
ReplyDeleteChapter 10 was about Teacher Freedoms which I believe to be a very important subject that needed to be covered. I have wondered at times about how my constitutional rights will be treated once I do gain employment in a school district. There have been so many cases in the past where teachers believed they were treated unfairly that I was happy to be able to read how different freedoms are protected and how the issues may be handled. I was surprised to read the section on freedom of speech because there is such a large separation of schools from religion and that teaching religious values and beliefs is such a sensitive matter within the public school systems. I agree that these should remain separate however from my experience it depends very much on where the school is and what type of culture surrounds the school. It seems to be much more acceptable in small rural school districts for the separation to be slightly skewed.
Lindsay,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that as professional educators we have to be careful what we do all the time because we are role models and there are so many people that look up to them. Teachers are respected and often times trusted to do the right thing.
In response to Jeremiah Gramkow...
ReplyDeleteI was interested to see what you had to say about this chapter after reading your response to chapter 9.
I love how labeling opinions was mentioned and how important it is that we try and remember that. Certain topics need to be tiptoed through these days because there are so many differing opinions and so many people these days are more willing to stand up for what they believe and defend themselves and their children when they may not agree with what may be happening in the classroom.
Chapter 10 is about the freedoms teachers have in and out of the school. Teachers have freedom of expression but with limits. They need to know what they are doing or saying is not causing disruption but creating a learning environment. Other freedoms include academic, freedom of association, political rights, dress and grooming, religious freedoms, and right to privacy. As I was reading through these I just shook my head up and down agreeing with the passages. A lot of it was common sense but was a good review.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Carissa K –
ReplyDeleteI too liked to be able to read about different issues of teacher freedoms and how they were handled. It lets me know what I can expect in the school and what can be done about it. I also agree that it depends on the school of whether to keep freedom of speech and teaching religious values and beliefs separate.
Teacher freedoms were very interesting to read about. I learned quite a bit from this chapter. It really explained the freedoms teachers have in regards to academic freedom. They are not able to teach their own information, but they are able to teach it in a way that they feel comfortable with, but as long as it is in within the grade level and is age appropriate. The chapter also touched base about dressing appropriately. This is being taught to us quite regularly in the internship meetings. Dr. Walizer and the other supervisors are always commenting on dispositions and dress is a part of that. I am grateful that it is being mentioned over and over again, because sometimes I think people forget what it constitutes and how it is important to remember. I am glad that they are emphasizing over it over and over again. It will be stuck in my head and I will remember it easier when I am actually a teacher. I also liked in the chapter that it talked about how teachers can conduct themselves in the community and outside of school. I agree but disagree with the factors of things on facebook or other personal websites. I think somethings don’t need to hinder a person from getting a job. IT is not a bad thing for that person and so why should it constitute whether they get a job or not.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Jena Simms –
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with what you said about dress. They are always teaching us in internship meetings that dress is a part of disposition. Well I think there are some teachers in this world that need to sit in the class during the meeting and see that difference. I think with the way Dr. Cook-Benjamin came in to the internship meeting the other day would have made these teachers realize they look ridiculous. I agree that Dr. Walizer should be teaching about this now so we are prepared and we know what is expected of us. I interned last semester in a different school in a different district and she was able to dress anyway she wanted and some of the things she wore was inappropriate. I think the problem I found with the school, is they have the elementary and the high school next door but the middle school is on the other side of town and so when the superintendent and principal have to rotate between the school buildings they are not seeing everything.
Freedom for all of us is very important. I wouldn’t want to take a job where I would have to keep my thoughts and feeling completely to myself. I know that I have to have guidelines were it deals with the school district but, my personal life is my personal life and I would want someone to tell me how to think. I’m glad we have rights such as what to wear, but I’m also glad they have some control. I think it is important to dress appropriate and my appropriate may not be someone else’s appropriate. Common sense should tell someone that it should not be distracting or inappropriate for the students. For me hills and a dress doesn’t help me sit on the floor with my students while teaching them. I shouldn’t be in a short skirt or shorts that show distracting parts. I do believe that my privacy should be kept. I think it is important to maintain yourself as a professional but I also believe that my home life is just that. I chose to divorce my husband, while some may not agree, I wouldn’t want that to be why someone didn’t hire me or chose to get rid of me. I also believe that certain parts of your home life should stay at home. I’m thankful for rights, rights that we as a unity can address and have changed if we all agree in majority.
ReplyDeleteJennifer P. I agree with your comment sometimes our personal life should be left personal and sometimes we display things that we forget will be noticeable to children especially teens. I don't think any child should really know a teachers sexual preference. We need to have our rights but we also need to use discretion. Not every parent is going to agree with your choices, so it's better not to allow them into your personal life. This is another reason I'm sure they don't want you too allow your students onto your Facebook accounts.
ReplyDeleteThis chapter was definitely informative, as well as interesting towards our future's. I personally feel as a U.S. citizen, it's important to use freedom within our everyday lives, with appropriate limits. Just like anything, there needs to be a balance-not too much one way or the other. I feel that in order to be productive in a classroom setting it's VERY important to respect yourself in all ways, as well as your students. Going into the education field, we all know how critical the public can be. For example, I can remember being amazed at the fact that my 4th grade teacher shopped at the same grocery store that my parents did. It was equivalent to seeing a celerity when I was a young child. Therefore, we all know we, as future educators, are almost put on some sort of "higher standard" in order to portray a positive role model for our students and students to come. Not that I have anything to hide, but for this reason, I personally would prefer to teach in a local community NOT close to where I live. Along with this idea, I do not personally have any social networking pages. I used to, but being encouraged by professors and local elementary school teachers to get rid of or "hide" these pages, such as Facebook, allowed for me to have another prospective. This idea was directed to just me personally, but for ALL education majors. To me, it's not worth the hassle or risk. I have had professors discuses situations where teachers have been FIRED over social networking sites and outbursts. Again, to me, it's just not worth the risk. On the other hand, I also know teachers who add their students on the social networking sites. This is taking it to a whole other level. It's one thing to me, to have a social networking account or site, but a whole other to accept friend requests from students. I am not saying this is 100% wrong, I just don't think it's worth the risk. Especially if the students are elementary age students. What if a student asks or says an inappropriate question or word on your social networking site??? It's not worth the risk-period! Overall, being a positive role model no matter what is important for ourselves as individuals, as well as for our future students.
ReplyDeletehis chapter was definitely informative, as well as interesting towards our future's. I personally feel as a U.S. citizen, it's important to use freedom within our everyday lives, with appropriate limits. Just like anything, there needs to be a balance-not too much one way or the other. I feel that in order to be productive in a classroom setting it's VERY important to respect yourself in all ways, as well as your students. Going into the education field, we all know how critical the public can be. For example, I can remember being amazed at the fact that my 4th grade teacher shopped at the same grocery store that my parents did. It was equivalent to seeing a celebrity when I was a young child. Therefore, we all know we, as future educators, are almost put on some sort of "higher standard" in order to portray a positive role model for our students and students to come. Not that I have anything to hide, but for this reason, I personally would prefer to teach in a local community NOT close to where I live. Along with this idea, I do not personally have any social networking pages. I used to, but being encouraged by professors and local elementary school teachers to get rid of or "hide" these pages, such as Facebook, allowed for me to have another prospective. This idea was directed to just me personally, but for ALL education majors. To me, it's not worth the hassle or risk. I have had professors discuses situations where teachers have been FIRED over social networking sites and outbursts. Again, to me, it's just not worth the risk. On the other hand, I also know teachers who add their students on the social networking sites. This is taking it to a whole other level. It's one thing to me, to have a social networking account or site, but a whole other to accept friend requests from students. I am not saying this is 100% wrong, I just don't think it's worth the risk. Especially if the students are elementary age students. What if a student asks or says an inappropriate question or word on your social networking site??? It's not worth the risk-period! Overall, being a positive role model no matter what is important for ourselves as individuals, as well as for our future students.
ReplyDeleteThis chapter was definitely informative, as well as interesting towards our future's. I personally feel as a U.S. citizen, it's important to use freedom within our everyday lives, with appropriate limits. Just like anything, there needs to be a balance-not too much one way or the other. I feel that in order to be productive in a classroom setting it's VERY important to respect yourself in all ways, as well as your students. Going into the education field, we all know how critical the public can be. For example, I can remember being amazed at the fact that my 4th grade teacher shopped at the same grocery store that my parents did. It was equivalent to seeing a celebrity when I was a young child. Therefore, we all know we, as future educators, are almost put on some sort of "higher standard" in order to portray a positive role model for our students and students to come. Not that I have anything to hide, but for this reason, I personally would prefer to teach in a local community NOT close to where I live. Along with this idea, I do not personally have any social networking pages. I used to, but being encouraged by professors and local elementary school teachers to get rid of or "hide" these pages, such as Facebook, allowed for me to have another prospective. This idea was not directed to just me personally, but for ALL education majors. To me, it's not worth the hassle or risk. I have had professors discuses situations where teachers have been FIRED over social networking sites and outbursts. Again, to me, it's just not worth the risk. On the other hand, I also know teachers who add their students on the social networking sites. This is taking it to a whole other level. It's one thing to me, to have a social networking account or site, but a whole other to accept friend requests from students. I am not saying this is 100% wrong, I just don't think it's worth the risk. Especially if the students are elementary age students. What if a student asks or says an inappropriate question or word on your social networking site??? It's not worth the risk-period! Overall, being a positive role model no matter what is important for ourselves as individuals, as well as for our future students.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Carrisa,
ReplyDeleteI feel the same way with the idea of things such as religion. It's important to have our own views and opinions as individuals, but inside and outside the school building there is a fine line. I think it's crucial to respect and be open minded to all students views as well. For example, with the holidays... I think if one point-of-view is brought up, such as Santa Claus, then ALL points-of-view should be introduced as well. It's got to be ALL or NOTHING.
FHSU does a great job at preparing us for what is covered in chapter 10 - teacher freedoms. Disposition has been addressed many times in every class that I have attended. The point is that we are expected to be role models. And by that I mean role models in a non biased way. I know that the biggest obstacle I will have is not sharing my faith. I hope to be in a school district that is lenient with religion. My husband teaches and coaches in a small school district that I would categorize as lenient. Before and after every football game a student leads the team to say the Lord's Prayer. I'm so grateful that the students participate in this. However, I completely understand the religious views discussed and would never want any student to feel left out in my classroom because they are not a Christian. I think much like most of the law book, balance is key.
ReplyDeleteChapter 10 hit on some important facts. Teachers have some restrictions on their freedoms due to their role in the community as role models in the community. The importance of dress and grooming is addressed in this chapter, and it talks about how some other freedoms are limited, such as freedom of speech and freedom of association, and even freedom of religion. Freedom of religion is protected outside of the classroom, but in the classroom, it is important to be careful not to push religious views on students. This chapter was really enlightening for me and drove home the whole concept of teachers as “professionals” who are seen as having public prestige, such as a Doctor. This chapter really made me think about public behavior, speech and even dress. We talk about the professional dress part often in classes but the book addressed that many schools have a written dress code in that their teachers are expected to adhere to.
ReplyDelete@ Jennifer P
ReplyDeleteI not sure what was ruled on the "Pledge of Allegiance." However I have subbed at a few different schools. It seems to be different depending on the school. At one of the largest schools in Kansas the work "God" is left out. However in most of the smaller schools I have subbed in the still cite the pledge with the word "God." So, maybe it is up to the individual districts?? Good question!
Rachel Curry~
ReplyDeleteI really hear what you are saying about perhaps not living in the community that you teach in. I think there are advantages to that. I try to remember that my life is on display all the time, but it's hard!
Carrie,
ReplyDeleteI agree, it is hard! Much easier said then done, I am sure. I just want to be as prepared as possible. Not putting myself in a potential risk is ideal.
This chapter was more fun for me to read than the last because I feel teachers are expected to look and act a certain way but this chapter detailed on their freedom of expression. When I begin teaching I want to encourage my students to use self expression. I want them to feel completely themselves in my classroom so they can relax learn. I also want to be comfortable myself in my classroom as well. I think that dress and hygiene are extremely important and that you can still express yourself through professional dress. I also think teachers can express their views and beliefs just as anyone else can, they just have to do it in a professional manner. The eight teacher freedoms touched on many actions teachers may or may not partake in and I think it's important that all professional educators pay close attention to that. Like I said, I'm a supporter of self expression but it must be done so in a professional manner. I think all teachers can be unique and still express themselves, they just have to do it with a little more thought.
ReplyDeleteCarrie,
ReplyDeleteIt seems like teachers are so closely watched in the community because they're around children and like you said, role models for them. I think if someone is working toward becoming a teacher they must realize that they're are some guidelines to how they can express themselves. That being said I don't think teachers should feel limited but just more cautious in the ways they do express themselves.
When I had my first internship class, last semester, I originally thought the discussion about dress and other professional mannerism seemed a bit unnecessary. However, I am an older student, who previously held a professional position in a company where I had to wear suits each day. However, a lot has changed in the past. When I am out and about, I often see individuals working with piercings, tattoos, etc. When I see them, I think about how unprofessional it looks. As teachers, we ARE role models for our students. We never know when we may see them. It may be at the store, at a ballgame or at the park. We do have the freedoms of speech, expression, religion, etc. However, we need to evaluate and consider our actions and how that reflects and appears to others who see us. This being students AND their parents.
ReplyDeleteRachel;
ReplyDeleteUnlike you, I enjoy working in the same school district where I live. My sons attend that school and I am active with many school activities. The kids all know me. Some may think that this is a disadvantage, but in most ways, I see it as an advantage. Eventually, this is the school district that I would like to work for.
As teachers we are definitely looked upon as role models and held to very high standards by the people in the community, which makes it even more important for us to act as professionals. Chapter 10 which discussed teacher freedoms was very interesting and I learned a lot of great information. First of all, I think that it is awesome that we all have the right to freedom of expression, although as educators, we have to use some discretion. The text made it very clear that teachers are not allowed to preach to their students about certain issues that they are passionate about but that they are welcome to speak as a private citizen about such issues outside of the school. I think it’s important for teachers to have academic freedom so that they are able to implement some of their interests into the classroom, but they must make sure that the material they are presenting is at the appropriate age level of their students. Freedom of association, the right to privacy and religious freedom are also very important freedoms that teachers should be well informed about. Teachers are human and I believe they should be given the same rights as anyone else and their private lives do not really define the kind of teacher that they are. As long as the teachers are not discussing these issues with their students or other people at the school, there should not be an issue, whether they are in a same sex relationship or a Christian.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Jeanette:
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that it’s crazy to hear about all of the teachers getting fired over things that they post on social networking sites. I personally don’t think it’s a crime to interact with your friends on Facebook, but when these teachers start adding the student’s and their parents, that’s going a bit too far. They need to stay professional and that does not include playing Farmville with their students. Everything you post on the internet will be there forever and sometimes people need to be reminded of this fact.
I feel that we as teachers are watched very carefully because what we do effects our students. This chapter was about teacher freedoms. I feel it is important for teachers to be able to express themselves and it was interesting to find out that teachers are able to do that, but within limits. I agree that everyone had their opinions, but as a professional educator we have to know what is appropriate to talk about and what isn't. I feel the bottom line is if for some reason in your head you feel it isn't right don't say it. If you have to sit there and think about what you are about to say don't say it. The book mentioned the "role-model image". I feel that is important for teachers to remember in any situation whether they are at school or not. We as educators need to remember that our students look to us for guidence and what we do in and out of the classroom affects them positively and negatively. I noticed dress and grooming was brought up in this chapter. Dr. Walizer talked about that a lot during internship. I don't feel it is that difficult to shower and stayed groomed and dress appropriately. Once you become a full time educator I don't feel the habits we learned in internship should go out the window.
ReplyDeleteKim,
ReplyDeleteI agree with your whole post. It's true we never know when we will see our students outside of school. When I was in elementary school I saw my 3rd grade teacher at a restraunt. I thought it was the weirdest thing at the time, but it happens. I also agree with the evaluation of what we are about to say. I stated that if we have to question or think to hard about what we are about to say then don't say it at all.
This chapter brings outlines the freedoms we will have as teachers. The law guarantees us freedoms in our personal lives, speech religion and so on, so long as our actions do not interfere with the school or our ability to teach. I think it is important to keep in mind, though, that even if what we are doing is legal, it may not be wise. For instance, there have been a few issues in my community involving teachers having extramarital affairs. These issues do not affect their ability to teach, but it sure changes the way the parents view them. A teacher cannot be fired for something like this, but I have heard parents state they didn't feel that a "person like that" could do a good job teaching their child. I am glad to know the laws regarding the freedoms I will have as a teacher, but I realize that I will be held to a different standard in the eyes of the community and must act accordingly regardless of those laws.
ReplyDeleteKim Markham, I too think an understanding that teachers need to dress professionally should come naturally. Most people in professional careers are required to do so. Teachers are no different. I also wanted to say that I enjoy working in the district I live in too. I get to know the students in the school and their parents, and I get hugs pretty much daily when I walk around town or take my daughter to school. This makes me feel good, and it helps me to build positive professional relationships that I am hoping will help me get hired here in the future.
ReplyDeleteBefore reading Chapter 10, I had never given much thought to “teacher freedoms” and how they applied to me. I suppose I had always given in to the “teacher as a role-model” theory and have always been conscious of the image I projected. However, even though I had not given much thought to these freedoms and what they mean to me, it is good to know that I do have certain rights and freedoms which are protected if I ever need to exercise them. I think many of these rights are important in order to not “stifle” teachers, who are individuals with thoughts and beliefs that may not always coincide with their school districts way of thinking. I also agree with the point that teachers (if speaking outside of the school environment) should preface their comments with a statement that they are speaking as an individual and not as a school employee. Teachers are seen as representatives of their schools and if they are not speaking for their school, then they must make that clear. Another freedom I hadn’t thought about was the teacher’s freedom to run for office or work on a campaign. I think this is an important freedom to allow teachers to have, as long as (as the text mentioned) the classroom isn’t used as a political forum. I was a little surprised to read about how religious dress isn’t a protected freedom. I can understand the reasoning as to why it is not, but also understand why there is a debate as to whether or not this should be allowed. I was also surprised to read that until 2003 homosexuality wasn’t protected under the right to privacy. I understand why this could be controversial, but it is still a little unbelievable to me that someone would have to pretend to be someone they aren’t in order to protect their job. It seemed to me that a lot of these areas were “gray area’s” and that if in doubt it be best to ere on the side of caution. I’m glad that I have this as a resource to refer back to and will use it if I am ever in doubt on what is a protected freedom and what is not.
ReplyDelete@ Rachel Curry
ReplyDeleteI agree that teachers are role models and because of this should be positive examples to their students. I however, do not necessarily agree about facebook. I tend to think that this is something that depends on how you use it. I have a facebook, but for years I have had it private, only my friends can see my pictures or what I write (not even friends of friends, just the people I am friends with). If someone looks me up, all they see is my name, picture (which is always appropriate), and my husbands name. I use facebook to stay connected with my family and many friends who live far away. My newest nephew was born a couple weeks ago and I was able to see pictures of him almost right away and share them with other people. Facebook can be a positive thing. I am also friends with many teachers that I have worked with, who have facebook. I don't feel the way I use facebook puts me at any risk for getting fired. Many of the teachers who have been fired have said or posted inappropriate things and broadcast them to anyone who wanted to see. I have no intentions of doing this. Maybe it is one of those gray areas, and "ere on the side of caution." But I have also worked in a professional environment for a few years now, which has extended to facebook and have never had a problem. Again, I just think it's your intentions and how you use it.
I think that Chapter 10 can be summed up by tip number five at the end of the chapter. It says, “ exercise your personal rights in ways that account for the sensitive nature of your position as a role model for students and the integrity of the teaching profession as a whole.” As teachers, we maintain our constitutional rights like everyone else does. However, because of our position and public connections we must be extra careful about what we say and what we do. Teachers are entitled to their own opinions on issues, but these are not to be professed in the classroom or to be viewed as statements endorsed by the school district. This chapter reminds me of two areas we often talk about in internships, professionalism and dispositions. These are both extremely important to the teaching profession and should be maintained by all teachers.
ReplyDeleteKayla R—
ReplyDeleteI like your tip about what a teacher should say, if you think there’s a chance it shouldn’t be said, don’t say it! I do not feel that there is anything important enough to say that is worth losing your job or license over. I also agree with your statement that teachers need to remember if they are in school or not. However, even outside of school we need to be aware of what we are saying and doing.
I like that these laws are in place. I feel that teachers should be role models for our children. I personally would not want a teacher to press their political or religious views on my child and therefore I am thankful that these laws are in place. I am one who has strong religious beliefs and was concerned about how quiet I would need to be about my beliefs. This chapter helped me to understand the limitations and they aren't anything that I should be worried about. I do understand that I can still have my strong beliefs without bringing it up in my future classroom.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Allison G.,
ReplyDeleteI like the quote that you pulled out of the chapter, "exercise your personal rights in ways that account for the sensitive nature of your position as a role model for students and the integrity of the teaching profession as a whole." I like this quote. You are correct, it pretty much does sum up the whole chapter. We do have personal rights, and a part of our job is to be a role model for our students without imposing on their personal rights to believe what they want to believe as well as the have the political views that they want to. Great quote Allison!
I really liked Chapter 10 which covered Teacher Freedoms. Before reading this chapter I was aware that teachers had to be very careful of what they say around students in the classroom and outside. I think it is important for teachers to realize that their words and behavior outside of the classroom can affect their students. They need to be careful that their actions are judged and that they have impressionable students.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Kymberly R:
I agree. As a future teacher and a parent someday I want the teachers I interact with to be good role models and help encourage students to be who they are, and not have their opinions forced on the students.
Law Module 10
ReplyDeleteThe chapter over Teacher Freedoms has been by far my favorite chapter to read in our school law book. This is extremely beneficial information for each of us as we continue or career into education. It is wonderful to have to the exact information on the laws of freedom of expression, political rights, our right to privacy and our religious freedoms when each of us becomes teachers in the classroom. Most of the information I read I was already familiar with having worked in a school setting for 6 years. What is interesting to find out is how much “power” school districts actually have over our own personal rights. I believe the freedom that gets looked upon most these days is a person’s right to privacy. With Facebook, Twitter, and all of the other social networks that have become available to people this seems to be the freedom that is affected the most at this day and age. It seems as though even with the right to privacy freedom numerous teachers are losing their jobs in regards to how they conduct themselves on these social networking sites. Teachers are role models to children and should always remember that even with their right to privacy, they are considered to be “pillars of the community” and everything they do is still watched by the public.
What I found interesting while reading this chapter was the things that were said about academic freedoms. Reading this one would think that if a teacher has academic freedom they would be able to teach whatever they wanted. But this is not true. A teacher is still required to teach to the standards that are provided but they are able to give the students freedom to research and learn what they want about the subject. I like knowing what I am able to do as a teacher and the freedoms that I am able to have.
ReplyDeleteAllison G.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you about what you said about what teachers can say. We do have the same rights as everyone else, but we are in a dangerous position. We can tell students where we stand on certain things but we cannot persuade them to think like us. That is something that cant be forgotten. It will be hard to remember this but in time it will get easier.
Teacher freedoms are a touchy subject in my opinion. There are so many things that I think teachers should be allowed to do while teaching that are definite no's in the real world. For example we have the freedom of speech but only to a certain extent inside the classroom. It makes sense but it would be so nice to be able to say what we believe sometimes instead of only what the books say. Something I think differently is outside involvement. Outside involvement shouldn't really matter for teachers-they should be able to have their own lives but it is important to remember that their are little eyes everywhere watching and taking not of what we do and do not do. We have to be an example to the younger generations.
ReplyDeleteReply to Jordan Ottley:
I agree that it is nice to know what we can and cannot do as teachers. It really puts our jobs into perspective because we know that there are so many things that we have to teach. I like what you said about students having the opportunity to research outside of what we teach them. That makes things so much different and maybe they will go somewhere that we encourage.
Chapter 10 is a great chapter and was probably the most easy to read and relate to of all of these law modules thus far. While we, as teachers, have the same rights (on a limited basis) as others, I felt that the sentences on page 147 summed it up best, “Although teachers enjoy these rights, they should exercise them with discretion in light of the nature and importance of their positions as public employees. Further, they should be concerned with the “role-model image” they project and the impact of their actions on impressionable young children.” I really do agree that we must realize that our life is under a microscope as teachers. I was just attending a volleyball game for my daughter yesterday when I came across a student from the school that I work at as I was leaving. I never would have expected to see this child there, so imagine how I’d have felt had I yelled inappropriately or behaved or dressed in a way that was inappropriate when I came across this young man. This is the profession I chose. I CHOSE to know that I am constantly going to be watched and looked upon as a role model. If my rights to dress a certain way, behave in a certain way, or speak about my religious or political beliefs in a certain way are limited, it is because I chose a profession that requires that. If I don’t like it, I also have the right to choose a different profession.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Deidre:
ReplyDeleteNO…it is not just you (in regard to feeling let down by a teacher if they drink or smoke)!!! I will never forget a time when I was with my first grade daughter and we pulled up to a parking spot at the grocery store. She looked to the side to find the first grade teacher from the other classroom of her school parked next to us. She was so excited to jump out to see her – right up to the point that the teacher got out with a cigarette in her hand and continued to smoke it all the way to the door. I realize the teacher has that right, but my daughter was shattered. We’ve always raised our children to understand that smoking is a bad choice – and here was a teacher that she really looked up to, smoking. Even if we teachers have the same freedoms as others, it is so important for us to realize that we have chosen to be a role model for our students by choosing to be a teacher. Anyone who complains about that is very similar to the movie star who chooses that life and then complains about the paparazzi. Some things just go with the territory!
Betsy F.-
ReplyDeleteI am with you on the fact that teacher's lives are under a microscope. From now on, teacher education candidates need to watch what we say and do, because it might come back to hurt us!
Chapter 10 is one of the most important chapters in this book. From now on we as teacher candidates need to watch what we say and do. For example, I had a friend post on Facebook a couple weeks ago that she was at our local coffee shop. She heard 4 USD 480 teachers sitting there gossiping about another USD 480 teacher and then about some of their students. That right there cannot happen! It is so important to keep the confidentiality of our students private. I know if the wrong parent heard that, those teachers would be in a bad situation right now.
ReplyDeleteThe one thing that really got me in this Chapter was at the beginning when it was talking about the freedom of expression. Everyone in this country has the right to freedom of expression, but everyone also has to be careful about how far they take that right. Teachers, from what I have seen, have to be the most careful about their freedom of expression because if something is said around students then the students might go home and tell their parents that same thing and it could get blown completely out of context, especially with the younger elementary students. Or you could be saying something to one person and somebody only overhears part of the conversation so it gets taken way out of proportion in that way. I love my right to freedom of expression, but I am careful about how, when, and where I say and do things.
ReplyDeleteBetsy F
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with that statement from page 147 also. We have those same rights but we have to be careful how we exercise those rights because we as educators are held to strict standards and stepping to far outside the line of those standards can be costly. Mostly because we are around parents children five days a week and have certain things that are expected of us.
Just like the teacher has expectations for their students. This chapter shows us what the school system expectations are for the teacher. I had to read this for myself. I am a very conservative christian. I have to counsel with my children's teacher every year about our religious freedoms. I have worked in the school system before studing to become a teacher. I have never had someone tell me to clock in work and clock out being who I really am. I wear clothing based on my beliefs every day it is consisted professional clothing. I don't bring it up but if a student asks me right out a question I answer it. My answer is a very brief fact.
ReplyDeleteKatie C
ReplyDeleteI am a christian too. My intention is not to push the students into anything but their full potential in learning.
I really enjoyed chapter 10 because offers something we can all relate to. Most of us will all be in the teacher field and I think it is a great idea that we had to read about the teachers freedoms in this section. Becoming a teacher to me, is very intimidating. There is so many laws and obligations that go along with being a teacher. Like the book stated, not only should you know what to do inside the classroom, you have to be careful outside as well. Social media is a big controversy going around right now with all the blogging and facebooking happening. I think as long as you are smart, you will be just fine. Don't do anything that would even make you second guess yourself when it comes to Facebook, etc. The freedom of expression was very interesting to me as well! Most school systems have similar expectations of teachers.
ReplyDeleteCassandra S--I also believe chapter 10 was most important chapter so far. Like I also said in my post, teachers need to be careful with all of this social networking happening. I believe if it makes you even second guess yourself for a second, you probably shouldn't be doing it. You are hearing more and more Facebook stories including teachers today in the media, teachers must be careful!
ReplyDeleteIn response to April B,
ReplyDeleteI like what you have to say about dressing appropriately. I don;t think we focus near enough on this topic! It's funny because as you said Dr. Walizer really stresses on this, and when I was in my intern class I observed teachers walking down the halls. You wouldn't believe the number of tattoos on the ankles, tank tops, and regular flip flops I saw! These were elementary teachers too. I though it was sad that I was in their school and looked better than they did!
This had great information about teacher's freedoms. I agree with other posts made that becoming a teacher can be very intimidating. It does make some things hard because facebook, for example, opens many doors to many conversations whether they are positive or negative. I am sure when some have bad days you just want to vent, but you can't! Things get turned around in the blink of an eye even when you have no intention on saying anything hurtful. I have worked with special needs children for a number of years now plus my mother has taught it fr 35 years. I have excellent confidentiality skills and have a great understanding of the definition! I just always think before I speak to make sure nothing I say can go against me. I also try to put myself as one from a parents view. I am a mother as well so these two things help me really watch what I have to say!
ReplyDeleteI really liked this chapter. I always felt like teachers were held to a higher standard because of their influence on their students. Teachers have to be constantly aware of their actions, who they associate with, what they wear, etc. I know with today's social networking, facebook for example, teachers have to be extra careful about what information and pictures they share on their pages and the internet.
ReplyDeleteI always wondered about what rights teachers have when it comes to wearing religious clothing in the classroom. I went to school with a Muslim student many years ago and wondered if Muslim teachers had the right to wear their hijab in the classroom. I don't really know how I feel about it being up to the school to decide weather or not this is appropriate. I understand that we can influence our students, but I think we still deserve the right not to violate our religion.
Lacey,
ReplyDeleteWhile I too believe taking away our right to have facebook violates our first amendment rights I have seen many facebook pages where public school teachers post pictures of their unprofessional, inappropriate activities while while under the influence of alcohol. I think in many cases disallowing the use of facebook by public school teachers protects them from damaging their reputations, even if they are responsible while under the influence because a picture says a thousand words.
"Teachers must also be reminded of the professional nature of their position and the impact of their behavior has on children, who often view them as role models." Teachers and parents raise a kid together. There is a big difference in the roles of each of these and I am not saying that parents cannot teach their child the same way a classroom teacher could. However, teacher's are an outside the home source for children to admire and strive to be like. I can look back at some of my teachers and think about characteristics that made them who they are and ways they helped mold me into who I am. As teacher's, we must be professional but view ourselves as above anyone but willing to do anything that may come our way.
ReplyDeleteStephanie,
ReplyDeleteI agree that teachers are held to a higher standard and they should be. Teachers are a huge part of what the future holds.
Law Module 10 on teacher freedoms was interesting but scary at the same time. I think we all know that as teachers, we are in the watchful eye of the community at all times. Not only do we have to set an example for our students, but for the parents, grandparents, preachers and all others concerned with our students. Growing up and still living in a small community I am well aware of the issues that a small comment can make. It seems as though some community members are starving for information, and with only one small comment the issue becomes HUGE! It is comforting to know that we are protected and have some teacher freedom!
ReplyDelete@ Joel,
ReplyDeleteI agree that as teacher we have to set standards. I am just not sure where to the line is drawn. We are still individuals and must be able to live our lives. Don't get me wrong, I am not saying that it is okay for us to be wild on the town, but we also are entitled to some freedoms.
@ Stephanie,
ReplyDeleteYou are right, it is not up to anyone to decide what religious clothing anyone wears. The goal is not to influence others and promote that type of lifestyle on our students. Teacher freedom is a good protection for this.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteStephanie
ReplyDelete"but I think we still deserve the right not to violate our religion."
Thank goodness I live and work in a small community because if I were told by an administrator I could not wear a cross, I would probably tell them.. ;) no, seriously, I was told by a student yesterday "We always have time for church" when I told him I did not have time to participate in the Christmas Cantata. If I couldn't wear my cross or my religion, I would have to go somewhere that I could.
Stephanie,
ReplyDeleteIf I did not make sense it is because half way through writing the post I realized what a good sermon that would be. (I used to preach)
My point was, I live my faith, I can not just set it aside.
I have spent the past 17 years (or so) living in a fish bowl. My husband is a minister and I preached for 10 years. So to find out teachers also live in fish bowls was not such a shock. 30 years ago, I might have thought WOW but since living in a world where people scrutinize your every move, from what you wear to what you do, say, or sit, the expectations, restrictions, and rights of our educators is not such a big shock. I am not sticking my nose up in the air but if we only held everyone up to such standards in our lives we would probably not have the crime or the social problems we have today!
ReplyDeletePersonally, I like the 'square' life of a preachers wife and teacher. It is a life that I can take pride in and help others in.