Just before noon today, during the first three days of our year-long induction teacher class, it was my honor to speak to our 33 new hires getting ready for their first year of teaching. From the interaction I witnessed, we have another fine, altruistic (and young!) group to lead our children. 

While most of the training centers on instructional practices and strategies, it is my responsibility to remind them of some very important considerations to be successful.  Each bullet below was discussed, and you can see the importance of due diligence in each area.  We will review the same list next week with the 23 veteran teachers we have hired this summer who are new to the District.

IN THE COURSE OF YOUR EMPLOYMENT,

ALWAYS:

·         “Avoid the appearance of evil.”

·         Avoid drunkenness, conviction of a violation of S.C. or U.S. law, gross immorality, dishonesty, and illegal use, sale or possession of drugs or narcotics.

·         Avoid racial jokes and inappropriate comments.

·         Avoid sexual jokes and inappropriate comments.

·         Consult with the appropriate person at your school or district office if you have questions or concerns.

·         Respect the privacy rights of others.

·         Provide appropriate supervision of students.

·         Manage your classroom well.

·         Take allegations seriously, particularly in the areas of suspected child abuse or neglect, sexual harassment, threats of violence, and information about weapons or bombs.

·         Treat everyone with fairness and with respect.

·         Understand and follow timelines.

·         Follow guidelines associated with the separation between church and state.

·         Watch your language.

·         Dress appropriately.

·         Reconsider your presence and participation on social networking sites.

NEVER:

·         Discriminate against anyone.

·         Harass anyone or retaliate against anyone.

·         Humiliate or embarrass persons, especially in front of others.

·         Persistently neglect your duty or willfully violate Board policies and regulations.

·         Use District computers to access, download, store, print or e-mail adult-oriented material or other inappropriate information.

·         Act on an attraction to a student.

AT ALL TIMES:

·         Thoroughly plan engaging work for your students. Teaching and learning are why we exist.