MTS Code of Professional Practice

We spent a fairly good chunk of class time over the last couple of days going over the MTS Code of Professional Practice. This is basically just the set of rules and ethics that all Manitoban teachers must abide by. The thing that I liked the best about going over these was that, not only did I learn something new, but like professionalism before it, it covers a lot of gray areas. I thought that was great because those are usually the areas that we need the most advice in.

I think that the one code that people have the most trouble with, and that which we as new teachers may not be aware of, is the one that requires us to deal directly with colleagues if we are having an issue with them. I think that new teachers automatically assume that you are to go to the principal when you are having problems, but this is not the case. Even though it may be intimidating as a new teacher, especially if the colleague in question is a vetran, we are required to confront them alone first and follow the proper chain of command. You may call on your MTS rep to give you advice on how to handle it, but they will not actually deal with it for you.

As someone who has worked in a school in the past I have seen even teachers of 30 years really struggle with this one. I think that it is natural to want to ask other colleagues for their advice and opinions to help validate how you are feeling, but you should not do so. As soon as you bring other people into the conflict it becomes unprofessional, and may be seen as you gossiping behind a colleagues back. Then, before you know it, your conflict is ten times larger than it ever was, and there's a very good chance you're going to come out looking like the bad guy. If you must seek adivice,..call your MTS rep!

There were also several other things that were discussed regarding the code that I was not aware of. For example, I had absolutely no idea that you were not supposed to accept a poistion from a school/division that is dealing their contract or striking. I also had never really thought about the part of the code that states you should never claim to be representing the MTS in any way when giving statements. I dont think this situation is very common, but nonetheless I would say that it is an excellent reminder to always be cautious about the things you say. It only takes one tiny slip-up to destroy a lifetime of building a professional image.

So as we can see, this code, though short and sweet, deals with a lot of very tricky issues. It is a great thing for new teachers to familiarize themselves with and may make certain decisions a little more clear during times of uncertainty.