Code of Ethics for Professional Teachers (Article VIII, IX, X)

I. RATIONALE:

The code of ethics for professional teachers adopted and also make known by
the Board of Professional Teachers through Board Resolution No. 435, series of 1997, in
accordance to the provisions of paragraph, Article II of RA No. 7836, also known as the
“Philippine Teachers Professionalization Act of 1994.

The code of ethics for the professional teachers outlines the teacher’s main
responsibilities to their students and also defines their role in the students lives. The
implication of the code of ethics for professional teachers is primarily intended to value
all of its students rights. It is extremely crucial for all educators to adhere to strict terms
and conditions when working, and to fully commit to implementing The Code of Ethics.
Providing and practicing ethics in education aids in the regulation of the educational
system and ensures that this discipline positively contributes to human wellbeing.

II. OBJECTIVES:
a) Define the Article VIII, IX, and X of the Code of Ethics for the Professional
Teachers
b) Appreciate the importance of the Article VIII, IX, and X of the Code of Ethics for
the Professional Teachers

III. CONTENT/DISCUSSION:
 Article VIII: The Teachers and Learners

Section 1.

A teacher has a right and duty to determine the academic marks and the
promotions of learners in the subject or grades he handles, provided that such
determination shall be in accordance with generally accepted procedures of evaluation
and measurement. In case of any complaint, teachers concerned shall immediately take
appropriate actions, observing due process.

Section 2.

A teacher shall recognize that the interest and welfare of learners are of first and
foremost concern and shall deal justifiably and impartially with each of them.

Section 3.

Under no circumstance shall a teacher be prejudiced or discriminate against a

learner.

Section 4.

A teacher shall not accept favors or gifts from learners, their parents or others in
their behalf in exchange for requested concessions, especially if undeserved.

Section 5.

A teacher shall not accept, directly or indirectly, any remuneration from tutorials
other what is authorized for such service.

Section 6.
 A teacher shall base the evaluation of the learner’s work only in merit and
quality of academic performance.

Section 7.

In a situation where mutual attraction and subsequent love develop between

teacher and learner, the teacher shall exercise utmost professional discretion to avoid
scandal, gossip and preferential treatment of the learner.

Section 8.

A teacher shall not inflict corporal punishment on offending learners nor make
deductions from their scholastic ratings as a punishment for acts which are clearly not
manifestation of poor scholarship.

Section 9.

A teacher shall ensure that conditions contribute to the maximum development

of learners are adequate and shall extend needed assistance in preventing or solving
learner’s problems and difficulties.

Article IX: The Teachers and Parents

Section 1.

Every teacher shall establish and maintain cordial relations with parents, and
shall conduct himself to merit their confidence and respect.

Section 2.

Every teacher shall inform parents, through proper authorities, of the progress
and deficiencies of learner under him, exercising utmost candour and tact in pointing
out the learner's deficiencies and in seeking parent’s cooperation for the proper
guidance and improvement of the learners.

Section 3.
 A teacher shall hear parent’s complaints with sympathy and understanding and
shall discourage unfair criticism.

Article X: The Teacher and Business

Section 1.

A teacher has the right to engage, directly or indirectly, in legitimate income

generation; provided that it does not relate to or adversely affect his work as a teacher.

Section 2.

A teacher shall maintain a good reputation with respect to the financial matters
such as in the settlement of his debts and loans in arranging satisfactorily his private
financial affairs.

Section 3.

No teacher shall act, directly or indirectly, as agent of, or be financially interested

in, any commercial venture which furnish textbooks and other school commodities in
the purchase and disposal of which he can exercise official influence, except only when
his assignment is inherently, related to such purchase and disposal; provided they shall
be in accordance with the existing regulations; provided, further, that members of duly
recognized teachers cooperatives may participate in the distribution and sale of such
commodities.

IV. IMPORTANCE/APPLICATION:

The code of ethics for professional teachers must be thoroughly studied since it
provides a complete foundation for the concepts and norms that govern educators'
behavior. This code is a valuable resource for instructors, providing ethical norms and
 highlighting the key values of integrity, honesty, and respect for other viewpoints.
Teachers who adopt these ideas can create a positive and supportive learning
environment for their students. Furthermore, the code of ethics aids educators in
negotiating tough ethical circumstances and making educated decisions that are in the
best interests of students and the greater educational community. It also fosters a sense
of responsibility and professionalism among teachers.

V. CONCLUSION:

Code of ethics for teachers is crucial for creating a safe and respectful learning
environment in a classroom. It sets clear standards for professional conduct, promoting
integrity and ethical behavior among educators. Adherence to a code of ethics helps to
build trust between teachers and students and ensures that teachers are held
accountable for their actions. Code of Ethics doesn’t only focus on the learners but also
on stakeholders like the parents.