The Legal and Ethical Frameworks of Teaching in the United States

The foundation of teaching in the United States is built upon a series of legal and ethical frameworks designed to ensure the highest standards of education. These frameworks encompass the training, certification, and ethical conduct of teachers, who play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the nation through education.

The Core Requirement: Understanding How Things Work

One fundamental principle in teaching is to impart knowledge on how things work, be it a simple skill like kicking a ball, a complex role like a priest, or an intricate task like piloting a lunar module. This approach is not limited to mere self-improvement; it also extends to the support and development of others, encouraging freedom and growth in both personal and societal contexts. Our educational system often reflects a cultural bias where the understanding of how things function remains undervalued, prioritizing rote memorization over critical thinking and practical application.

Local Control in Education

A distinctive feature of the American education system is the local control principle, where each of the 50 states has its own policies and procedures concerning the preparation and certification of teachers, as well as the accreditation of institutions preparing candidates for certification. This dynamic system ensures that teaching standards evolve with the times, adapting to changing societal needs and values.

Historical Context and Changing Standards

The early 1950s presented a significant contrast to today's standards. In that era, elementary teachers only needed an associate's degree or two years of college for certification, and a bachelor's degree was sufficient for high school teaching without any formal preparation. This scenario was reflective of a societal structure that viewed teaching as a last resort, often filled by men seeking to avoid military service.

As society evolved, so did the requirements. During the 1960s and early 1970s, many men became teachers to circumvent the draft. Despite their lack of preparation, these individuals frequently stayed in the profession due to the political and social changes of the time. Today, a bachelor's degree is the universal requirement, with some states imposing further restrictions, such as the need for a master's degree for certain certificates.

Teacher Certification and Codes of Ethics

In many states, such as Georgia, the teacher certification process involves rigorous evaluation. Prospective teachers must pass a test on the state's Code of Ethics and undergo criminal background checks. Additionally, those looking to begin practice teaching or observations must sign off on the Code of Ethics.

The Code of Ethics is comprehensive and stringent. It mandates that teachers refrain from consuming alcohol in front of anyone under 18 and prohibits any form of misconduct, including breaking a contract, committing a felony, or engaging in excessive financial infractions. These provisions are designed to uphold the ethical standards necessary for the profession's integrity and to protect students from harm.

Moving Across State Borders

A unique challenge experienced by many educators is the necessity to comply with the certification requirements of each state. If a teacher moves to a new state, they must often start the entire certification process over again. This can include returning to school to complete required coursework or passing additional tests, such as the PRAXIS exam.

Despite these challenges, many states offer reciprocation with adjacent states, simplifying the transition process for educators. However, this mutual recognition is not universal, and it is common for teachers to find themselves starting the process anew in each state they serve.

Conclusion

The legal and ethical frameworks governing the teaching profession in the United States are intricate and ever-evolving. From the core principle of teaching how things work to the demanding requirements of obtaining and maintaining a teaching certificate, these systems aim to ensure that educators are well-prepared and ethically committed to their roles. Understanding these frameworks is crucial for both current and aspiring teachers, as they work to shape the future of education.