Oh Sergiovanni....

Professionlism: the manner in which you carry out a job…The attitude, responsibility and education that goes with the profession. ..standards and values…accountability…passion…and the list goes on and on and on and on. But boy oh boy, do I have a story for you about what professionalism is NOT.

 A couple weeks ago, a few of us were out for appetizers at a local restaurant. As the waitress was clearing our table, she dumped the plates of half eaten food all over my friend’s stuff. The waitress’ response was “Holy f***, did that get all over your s***!” We sat there in silence…in disbelief. Did she actually just say that?

Professional???

In retrospect, regardless of the task at hand, there are a certain set of criteria that society has set for us. There is an expectation to deliver in a manner that is respectful, courteous and sincere. I know that no matter what job you are working at, your attitude and presentation are what get noticed first. My advice to you would be to not worry about the definition of professionalism.  You know what defines you as a person...so make up your own definition based on your morals, values and beliefs.  You will soon learn what works for you.
Now this is where Sergiovanni comes in.  There are four commitments that build on the foundation of professionalism. As teachers, we model the commitment to caring through the need to offer a safe and caring environment for our students Through lesson planning, classroom management skills and adequate communication we model the commitment to practise exemplary ways.  The committment to Valued Social Ends are all those extra funded projects teachers deliver in the classroom. (ie: bullying awareness)
The final one is commitment to one's practise.  As teachers, we do this every day.   We communicate with each other and participate and share at professional development.

We are lifelong learners.