In these days of educational meetings through the PLC/CLT process
the following Ideals and Principals from the National Association for the Education of Young Children, stand out as MAKE OR BREAK features.
For a variety of reasons, I cannot share specifics, but Trust
within collaboration is critical. Discussions, and working harmony between
colleagues can be destroyed if trust is broken.
A—Responsibilities to co-workers
Ideals
I-3A.1—To establish and maintain relationships of
respect, trust, confidentiality, collaboration, and
cooperation with co-workers.
All
voices should be heard. All voices should be valued. All voices should be
treated equally. If not, then collaboration and cooperation breaks down.
Principles
P-3A.1—We shall recognize the contributions of colleagues
to our program and not participate in practices
that diminish their reputations or impair their
effectiveness in working with children and families.
If we
are to work under the theory that all contributions matter, then at the end of
the day, we all feel connected and accepted as professionals..When we are
diminished, we feel undervalued.
P-3A.2—When we have concerns about the professional
behavior of a co-worker, we shall first let that person
know of our concern in a way that shows respect for
personal dignity and for the diversity to be found
among staff members, and then attempt to resolve the
matter collegially and in a confidential manner.
As
with any profession, there will be professional discord. There are ways to
handle it that do not personally hurt or diminish the feelings of the
colleague. Unfortunately, there are times when we must function in an
environment where some have the “ear” of the leaders. Those end up having the
advantage. And then personal dignity is attacked without the benefit of being
able to defend whatever position is being questioned..
Reference
NAEYC
(2005, April). Code of ethical
conduct and statement of commitment. Retrieved May 26, 2010, from http://www.naeyc.org/files/naeyc/file/positions/PSETH05.pdf
To Further Consider
What direction will I go after completing my program?
Will I leave the classroom?
I would like to write or plan a Bedrova type study on PLAY in the KINDERGARTEN setting...
I would like to establish a curriculum for PLAY workshops...
TO DO NOW
contact early childhood department in my county to discuss concerns
contact state department of education and write a letter..HEY, it has to start somewhere..
Hi Julianne,
ReplyDeleteYou selected several great principles and ideals related to colleagues and co-workers. When I hire and train my staff, I stress the importance of addressing issues openly and not allowing small things to build up into large problems because of lack of communication or fear of confrontation. Hostile work environments are not good for students, parents, or teachers, and the negative energy is easily felt by everyone. Working collaboratively can be difficult because so many different personalities and skill sets are simultaneously at play. However, if you can get it to work, it is synergistic!
You know Julz, we do have a responsibility to our co workers. It reminds me of what Louise Sparks said, " we must understand our way is not the only right ways. " all voices are valuable and should be heard.
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