Teacher left class & went to motel to prostitute

[pnoon]

Originally Posted by morefifemusic

It would be in most unions contracts. Falls under a similar line of using the school computer for any illegal activity.



While Peter's response sounds tongue and cheek, the fine line between what is appropriate and isnt for a teacher is a good point.

I am not allowed to smoke pipe at school (obviously), but if I am around town smoking and one of my students see me, is that grounds for discipline? I don't think so (and I think the district would have a real hard time doing anything like that). However, if I am busted on my own time for meth use or something like that, it is a different story.

Item four of the NEA (National Education Association, one of the two main national organizations for teachers_ Code of Professional Ethics states:

[The teacher...] Shall make reasonable effort to protect the student from conditions harmful to learning or to health and safety.

Being a methamphetamine addict would likely pose a risk to health and safety. Engaging in prostitution could be argued to as well.

In particular, I work at a day treatment with students with severe behavior disorders. Many of the students have also been sexually abused or perpetrated sexual offenses themselves. Having a prostitute teaching them would probably not be the best idea.

Anyway, interesting story. I am particularly curious if this was her first time. The new article says her record was clean till now.

My point wasn't meant to be so subtle. I was illustrating the fact that running guns and dealing heroin are illegal. Just as prostitution is. I wouldn't classify any of them as "careers". And I certainly have issues with an elementary school teacher engaging in these activities.

As you pointed out, certain professions also have standards of ethics. School teachers certainly have an ethical responsibility considering the impact they have on educating our children.

[Starscream]

Originally Posted by pnoon

As you pointed out, certain professions also have standards of ethics. School teachers certainly have an ethical responsibility considering the impact they have on educating our children.

In my district, we are not supposed to be seen purchasing alcohol or in bars. Upholding an image that is befitting of your company and profession is a good thing in my book. How would you feel if you saw your child's teacher staggering drunk leaving the bar getting ready to drive themself home at 3:00 a.m?

People can be terminated by many companies for not upholding a proper lifestyle image.

Originally Posted by andysutherland

How would you feel if you saw your child's teacher staggering drunk leaving the bar getting ready to drive themself home at 3:00 a.m?

Most of my students' parents would be too drunk to recognize me.

In all seriousness, I agree with upholding certain standards of conduct, but if a teacher wants to engage in an entirely legal behavior on their off-duty hours which has no impact on their ability to perform their job duties, they should be able to without fear of repercussions. Drinking alcohol and even being drunk is not against the law. Though, being wasted at 3:00 AM may make it difficult to show up and teach at 7:30 AM. Hangover + Boisterous Students = PAIN.

My personal opinion is that it is irresponsible for a teacher to drink to the point of drunkenness. I personally choose not to drink at all as I see no benefit to it and am prone to having additions (no desire to become an alcoholic). But that is a moral matter, not one of legality.

Just my .02.

-Tyler

[Genetic Defect]

Originally Posted by andysutherland

In my district, we are not supposed to be seen purchasing alcohol or in bars. Upholding an image that is befitting of your company and profession is a good thing in my book. How would you feel if you saw your child's teacher staggering drunk leaving the bar getting ready to drive themself home at 3:00 a.m?

People can be terminated by many companies for not upholding a proper lifestyle image.

2nd grade teacher

[Starscream]

Originally Posted by Big Vito

2nd grade teacher

And all this time I thought I was teaching 9th grade.