The Three Rs of Professionalism

Consider the following brief descriptions of teachers. Jim comes unprepared to a parent conference. Alicia brags about her ability to “stump ” students with test items. Catherine marks her college graduation by celebrating the termination of reading professional journals. Marcus regularly leaves his school campus to run errands during his “prep ” period. In the teacher’s lounge, Melissa often shares detailed information about specific students that others do not need to know. What do these teachers have in common? Most would characterize their behaviors as “unprofessional”—a label that is certainly not desired in education or in any field. To be considered professional, teachers must understand better the meaning and indicators of professionalism. In my 20 years of experience as a teacher educator, I have found developing professionalism to be the most challenging aspect of preparing new teachers. When problems exist in the area of professionalism, teacher candidates often do not recognize them. A closer look at the meaning and manifestations of professionalism may