Blog 4: Hidden "Social Rules"

The rules from 1872 and 1915 for teachers are very different from the Code of Ethics that are used today. To start off with, none of the rules from 1872 and 1915 have anything to do with the students. They are mainly rules to keep the teachers in line, and ensuring that they live a morally correct life. But then again, those rules are pretty harsh against women. In 1872, the rules allowed men time to court a woman, but than in 1915 it specifically states that women cannot even be seen with a man that is not her father or brother. The rules prohibit teachers from going out and doing things that will make them look like they have a lot of money. And they require teachers to save some money so in times of hardship; they will not have to ask anyone else for help. The Code of Ethics from the NEA that is used today includes things that are all about the student. Principle I is even titled Commitment to the Student. Principle II is titled Commitment to the Profession and states ways for teachers to fulfill their teaching duties in an ethic manner.

                I certainly do believe that there is are unwritten ‘social rules’ for teachers. It may not be a ludicrous as it was in 1872 or 1915, but I believe that the same premise applies. Teachers shouldn’t be portraying themselves in a negative manner whatsoever. This means to not be seen out all the time with lots of people of the opposite sex. And there are definitely rules on attire that are addressed. As teachers, we are told to dress professional, but I think that there is a line that can be crossed when referring to ‘professional’. There are some ways of dressing that may be considered ‘professional’ by following all the rules, but is also not appropriate for teaching (especially adolescent kids).

                Although I do think that there are unwritten rules for how a teacher should act, I think that for someone to want to be a teacher, they would want to show that they can live a positive as a model for their students. The rules from 1915 are a little overboard because school boards shouldn’t be able to influence teachers’ choice to dye their hair, or on what colors to wear. But I feel that teachers should want to show students what a life is like when you make positive choices, and that is what I plan to do with my teaching!

-Korri M. Kraemer