Code of Ethics Activity Questions

What kind of effects could this scenario bring the most?

What possible issues/concerns might this scenario raise?

What possible issues/concerns might this scenario raise? 

• Although Ms. T has made an attempt to make a personal connection with her student, Rebecca, she is using her personal email and sending text messages that are non school related that may be viewed as too personal and could lead to serious issues. Ms. T’s conversations may be considered inappropriate. A teacher-student relationship can begin very innocently but then progressively become more personal in ways that are inappropriate. It is obvious that Rebecca feels comfortable enough with Ms. T to engage in more personal issues and it is a challenge for teachers to find an appropriate balance. 

• Teachers should be approachable but they are professionals and should maintain a professional distance. The way Ms. T responds to the more personal issues can put her at risk of crossing the bounds of an appropriate relationship with a student. 

• Ms. T is in a vulnerable position. If Ms. T continues to communicate with the student in this way, Rebecca’s family may accuse her of behaving inappropriately.  

• Texts and emails are not private. They can be seen by others, forwarded and/or copied and printed. Out of context, they may appear to be inappropriate and lead to a violation of the Code of Professional Responsibility for Educators. Depending on how personal they are, a teacher may also be subject to investigation and possibly lose her certification.

Was your answer similar to any of the above?

How could this situation become a violation of the law, the “Code” or other school /district policies?

How could this situation become a violation of the law, the “Code” or other school/ district policies? 

• It is the teacher’s professional responsibility to create an emotionally and physically safe and healthy learning environment. The personal nature of the email/texting conversations may produce an emotionally unsafe environment. Rebecca may begin to feel uncomfortable being in Ms. T’s class after revealing information that is too personal. 

• Ms. T has an obligation to report anything that may put a student at risk. If Rebecca reveals personal information that may put her in danger, Ms. T. has an obligation to report it to the appropriate authorities.

• The community has an expectation that a teacher will behave in a professional manner. Ms. T’s behavior may be viewed as unprofessional and leave her open to possible claims of misconduct with a student.

• Many districts are developing policies regarding electronic communication with students. District policies around electronic communication must be shared with all staff. Ms. T may be in violation of her district’s policy. 

Was your answer similar to any of the above?

In this situation, what are some potential negative consequences for the teacher, for the students and the school community?

In this situation, what are some potential negative consequences for the teacher, for students and the school community?

• Although the communication with Rebecca may be well intended, how the messages may be translated by others who may be privy to them (friends, parents, siblings etc.) can greatly vary. Depending on the nature of the personal information shared by both Rebecca and Ms. T, even perception of an inappropriate relationship can impact Ms. T’s reputation and continued employment if complaints are filed against her.

Was your answer similar to the above?

What responses/actions will result in a more positive outcome and/or what proactive measures?

What responses/actions will result in a more positive outcome and/or what proactive measures might be considered?

• Texts and emails are not private. Ms. T should stop emailing and texting Rebecca any kind of personal messages. However, she should make every attempt to maintain a relationship with the student and enlist assistance from colleagues to provide guidance. 

• Ms. T is obligated to report anything shared by Rebecca to district administrators if there is fear of harm. Teachers and other school personnel are considered “mandated reporters.” A mandated reporter who has “reasonable cause to suspect or believe” that a child is being abused, neglected or placed in imminent risk of serious harm must follow DCF reporting procedures. Conn. Gen. Statute 17a-101a.

• Ms. T may need to examine her own intentions. Is she attempting to fulfill a personal need or void in her own life? The teacher must recognize the boundaries in the professional teacher/student relationship. 

• Use the school based email to send messages to students and their families rather than personal emails or text messages.

• Issues pertaining to personal matters should not be discussed through text messaging. Face to face conversations, in school, with an open door, are most appropriate while still maintaining a level of student confidentiality. 

• Consult another teacher/administrator and invite them to join the conversation with the student, if agreeable.

• Consult your district policy on the appropriate use of technology with colleagues, students and families.

Was your answer similar to any of the above?