What Does it Mean to be a Professional?

Common sayings among educators, "I just want to be treated as a professional." or "That behavior isn't very professional." or "How do I improve professionally?" These really can't be succinctly answered until we define what it means to be a professional.

1. a person who belongs to one of the professions, especially one of the learned professions-dictionary.com

Teachers definitely fall into this category. Teachers must have an extended education through a college degree and/or a teacher preparation course. Therefore a profession is one based on learning and the acquisition of knowledge.

2. a person who is expert at his or her work-dictionary.com

Teachers are experts for sure. It is also necessary for teachers to stay on a path of continual growth. The field of education is constantly improving and changing and to stay an expert, one must train, perform, and continue to innovate and improve.

3. Person formally certified by a professional body of belonging to a specific profession by virtue of having completed a required course of studies and/or practice. And whose competence can usually be measured against an established set of standards. -Business dictionary

This needs no elaboration.

4. Person who has achieved an acclaimed level of proficiency in a calling or trade. -Business Dictionary

For me the most important part of this definition is, proficiency in a calling, because for a lot of teachers it is just that, a calling. When you feel passionate and engaged in something you often become far more than proficient. You seek opportunities for growth and improvement. You truly want to exceed.

What does "professional" teaching look like to me?

Empowering students to be curious and proficient learners by providing authentic, active, engaging, inquiry based lessons. By developing situations where students are problem-solvers and critical thinkers, and self-directed learners. Designing a student-led classroom where every student has a voice.

Collaborating with my colleagues in a positive, supportive manner. Listening to new ideas. Respecting the views of others and being flexible in an ever changing field. Being humble but willing to take risks and fail for this is what sparks conversation and authentic relationships. Teachers should not be isolated but inclusive, cooperative and unified in their school vision and goals.

Finally, the key to any professional is reflection. Teachers should continually look at their best practices and seek ways to improve. A strong growth mindset should be modeled for other teachers and students. Learning is a personal path. A journey of self-discovery. But when teachers are given the leeway to be independent and innovative they feel confidant and courageous.  They take risks and are willing to fail. They innovate and enhance education. Therefore they are truly professionals.