What is it? Why is it important? Both inside and outside of the classroom, it is important for teachers to be professional in their actions. This means that they spend time reflecting on their teaching and consider how they can improve, stay up to date with all student records, attend professional development days, participate in the community, interact with families, and show integrity in all of their actions. All of these aspects contribute to the image that teachers give of themselves, which can in turn affect the success of the classroom What are the components? 4A - Reflecting on Teaching If teachers do not take the time to look back at a lesson and examine its effectiveness, they will be stagnant, never improving and continually making the same mistakes. In order to be the best teacher possible, individuals must analyze themselves as well as the students and note where changes and improvements can be made. However, it is critical for teachers to not simply examine the lessons, but to actually implement the knowledge that they have gained from their reflection into their future teaching. 4B - Maintaining Accurate Records One responsibility of a teacher is to keep student records in both instructional and noninstructional areas. Teachers must be aware of whether or not students completed their assignment, turned in a permission slip, paid for their school photos, etc. This helps teachers to be knowledgeable of all classroom happenings, as well as provides them with evidence should any issues arise. 4C - Communicating With Families Although families are often very busy, it is important for teachers to find ways to involve them in their child's learning and to inform them of what is taking place in the classroom. Teachers should want their students' families to be active in classroom as they are a big part of the students' lives. 4D - Participating in the Professional Community Although teachers are trained to teach, they must continually be learning so that they can be the best teachers as possible. To do this, teachers are highly encouraged to build relationships with their peers so that they can ask each other for advice, share ideas, and grow together. 4E - Growing and Developing Professionally Throughout their teaching career, teachers are likely to experience changes in content, pedagogy, and technology. Because of this, they must stay up to date with the latest ideas through attending conferences, reading informational articles, and engaging with other professionals, whether through social media or in person. 4F - Demonstrating Professionalism Above all requirements of teachers, their main focus should be the students. Teachers must be willing to put the success of their students above their own, and to stand up for them when no one else will. They must show their students that they do not take their position lightly, that they truly care about each individual in the classroom, and that they will be there for them at all times. In every situation, teachers should carry themselves with humility and show wisdom in their actions.