Teachers as Professionals
There is a public trust regarding teaching practice. Through provincial legislation (The Teachers’ Federation Act, 2006), teachers in Saskatchewan are given this public trust because they have the professional qualifications required to carry out their roles and responsibilities in working with students.
This public trust comes with certain expectations for teachers and also for others. Teachers are expected to act as professionals who demonstrate the specialized knowledge, skills and judgment that are required to serve students’ educational needs. In turn, however, teachers expect that they will be treated as professionals by students, parents, employers and the public. As members of the teaching profession, teachers also have a responsibility to act at all times in a manner that is worthy of this public trust. In turn, teachers believe that this kind of professional conduct on their part is worthy of respect from others.
Through the years, the teaching profession has adopted a number of bylaws and policies that express Saskatchewan teachers’ beliefs about what professionalism is, what it means to be a teacher, and what teachers expect from others in order to do their work effectively. STF bylaws and policies apply to all teacher members and include, for example, the Code of Professional Ethics, the Code of Professional Competence and the Code of Collective Interests. In addition, every teacher who teaches in a school regulated by The Education Act, 1995 is required to hold a valid teaching certificate that is issued by the Ministry of Education.
Teachers gain these qualifications in several ways, such as through completion of an approved teacher education program. Many will also participate in professional development opportunities throughout their careers. Some teachers may also become accredited.
One very rewarding professional development opportunity within the teaching profession is the role of mentor, or cooperating teacher, for the internship program. For teachers, this arguably represents the ultimate in terms of lifelong learning: an opportunity to give back to the profession while at the same time being rejuvenated by those who are about to embark on their professional journey. The 16-week internship is also your chance to influence the future of teacher education, in terms of connecting practical and theoretical knowledge, as you work with the teacher candidate. If you are interested in mentoring an intern teacher please contact the appropriate college at the University of Saskatchewan or the University of Regina.
As well as having certain qualifications, teachers throughout their careers also look for ways to strengthen their teaching practice and professionalism. The STF offers a wide range of professional development programs and resources for interested teachers, including some special opportunities for individuals who are just beginning their teaching careers.