What is it? Component F of Domain 4 attends to the important topic of professionalism in education. Educators who show professionalism are ones that are willing to "go to bat for" their students while at the same time remaining respectable. It is an important and valuable quality to be able to show both passion and diplomacy. However, it is a quality that is required of teachers who wish to implement component 4F and be impactful.
Why do we need it? Component 4F is a crucial part of the Danielson Framework because it calls teachers to hold ourselves up to the highest of standards. An educators job is very important and has the potential to impact the lives of not just those that we teach but also the lives that our students have touched. Due to this grave responsibility, it is vital that we be reminded of the necessary behavior we must uphold. It never hurts to remind ourselves that our number one priority is our students and that we should always show integrity in everything that we do. These are just a few of the reasons why we need this component.
What are the elements? This component contains a total of five elements. The first element is all about integrity and ethical conduct. It is paramount that teachers conduct themselves with integrity and honesty as to assure that the best possible environment is given to students. The second element concentrates on service to students. This element states that educators should put students needs before everything when planning and preparing classroom practices. The next element focuses on advocacy. Teachers must serve as a student's number one advocate in the school. It is our job, as educators, to support our student's best interests whether or not it aligns with traditional practices and beliefs. The fourth element targets decision making. In order to best serve and educate their students teachers must be able to solve problems while keeping each student's needs as the priority. The last element centers on teacher compliance with school and district regulations. This element reminds teachers that it is essential that they adhere to the policies and procedures set forth by the school.
What does implementation look like? Teachers who are distinguished at implementation of component 4F would most likely employ several of these artifacts everyday.
They seek out resources for students who have unattended needs that extend beyond the classroom.
They serve as a mentor and role model to new teachers.
They go above and beyond the basic means of helping students by providing after-school support, coming in early for students who need assistance, organizing school-wide events like adopt a family during the holidays, etc.
They remind not just themselves but also fellow educators that the students should be their first priority.
They maintain a positive and professional working relationship with all colleagues, even those with differing views.
They have created a handout for themselves to refer to outlining all school and district regulations in order to avoid any unnecessary complications.
Sources: Danielson Group » The Framework. (2017). Danielsongroup.org. Retrieved 21 September 2017, from http://www.danielsongroup.org/framework/