Professionalism

Professionalism consists of the norms, values, standards, and practices associated with the school, a learning community in which all stakeholders are committed to ensuring student achievement and organizational productivity.  Specific behaviors have been identified by the Georgia Department of Education as non-negotiable professional behaviors for teachers.  Teacher Candidates will be expected to adhere to those non-negotiable professional behaviors expected of all Georgia educators and articulated in the Georgia Teacher Duties and Responsibilities (GTDR).

In addition to the GTDR, candidates are expected to abide by the standards of conduct established by the school system/district where they are placed, as well as the Code of Ethics established by the Professional Standards Commission.  The Georgia Code of Ethics will be reviewed during seminars throughout your field experience courses.

Mercer's additional expectations can be found in the handbook associated with each field experience course. 

Professional Contact Policy with TCOE Partnering Schools and School Systems

Tift College of Education candidates should refrain from improper contact with partner schools associated with Mercer University, during their enrollment in our program.  "Improper Contact" can be defined as contact with partnering schools regarding your placement, without OFP consent; unprofessional conduct( as defined in the TCOE Handbooks, Georgia Code of Ethics or the Georgia Teacher Duties and Responsibilities (GTDRI)) with Cooperating Teachers, Principals, University Supervisors, parents, or students before, during, or immediately concluding an experience.  Further, "improper contact" should not be made using cell phones, social media, telephones, email correspondence or USPS mail services. 

Candidates who have grievances regarding their placements, Cooperating Teachers, University Supervisors, or others before, during, or at the conclusion of their experience should contact the Director of Field Placement.  The Director of Field Placement will explain the proper channel through which to file an official grievance, should one be necessary.