A few days ago
annswers

What should I do about teachers who behave unprofessionally?

The school year is beginning. I’m new to this school district and new to teaching. We’ve had orientation, workshops, and meetings this past week. I’ve been thrown into group meetings with some very unprofessional-behaving teachers. Administration does not seem to care about their comments. What should I do? How should I behave? Thank you.

Top 10 Answers
A few days ago
Lilly One

Favorite Answer

Now you have to realize that you have not yet seen them when the students are there. Some teachers simply get very silly when there are no students around, so don’t be too quick to judge.

If the behavior continues and you are truly bothered, begin by separating yourself from those individuals. Find like-minded colleagues to work with and (respectfully) avoid the ones that offend your sensibilities.

You mentioned you are new to teaching (1st year?). Once the school year begins, you are going to have plenty of other work and issues to distract you.

0

A few days ago
hsmomlovinit
Unfortunately, if the administration doesn’t do anything about it, the most you can do as a new teacher is to take the high road and set an example. If you make a big deal out of it, you won’t be doing yourself any favors. I’ve been in situations like this before…and though it’s hard, the only behavior you’re responsible for is your own and that of your students. If you set the example and get noticed for your great attitude and great work, perhaps others will take note and follow your lead.

Good luck!

1

A few days ago
specialedprincipal
You need to understand your role as a new teacher. Your job is to educate students to the best of your ability. Many times new teachers, think they have all the answers and all of us experienced professionals are clueless.

Hopefully this first year you wont damage too many kids while you are learning. Your job is not to police the other teachers. I taught for 17 years and have been a principal for the past 5. I call tell you every year I learn something new. As a teacher I was totally clueless when I first entered the classroom. Ironically, I thought (like you) I knew more then everyone else. Leave supervision of teachers to your administrators. Everyone will appreciate it. This is not the advise you wanted, but if you listen, you will get along much better this year.

1

A few days ago
eastacademic
First off there is nothing you can really do to those specific teachers. If you keep a positive outlook, you will find like minded teachers everywhere. trust me, they outnumber the negative types. Often the louder they are, the less pull they have when real decision get made. Take the time to find out who is helpfull, who is doing good things and who has a great rapport with their kids. These are the people you should go to for advice and help.

Don’t be discouraged, its all about your kids anyways.

2

A few days ago
SKCave
These are new colleagues, I take it . There isn’t a lot u can do, except to make sure that ur own behaviour is totally professional at all times. Are their comments made in front of pupils or only in the staff room. Sometimes, comments made in the staff room are to relieve stress/tenson. Hope this helps,but email me if u like.
0

A few days ago
Silly Sally
As the low person on the totem pole, you’ll be better off just dealing with it. I would maintain my professional standards, but don’t be openly critical of them. It would make for a very unpleasant work environment for you. If they are that bad, maybe some of their students’ parents will complain. Or, as you develop more of a relationship with your administration, maybe you can later bring up the problem.
0

A few days ago
jateef
Do you have a mentor at your building, or a teacher that you trust? Talk to him/her about it. Sometimes they can give you some pointers, (yes, Mr. X is crazy, etc).

I work with some toxic teachers, too. I just steer clear, and I do not associate with them (as politely as possible). Change happens very slowly, but perhaps others will follow by your example.

0

5 years ago
stacey
Maybe your teacher has a drinking problem and needs help for that as well as learning boundaries with her students. I do not believe you are being selfish by keeping your priorities in order. As you said, she crossed the line.
0

A few days ago
Anonymous
Take the high road, the others may follow your example, if not at least you can say you tried.
0

A few days ago
Twiggy
Would you elucidate a little on your interpretation of “unprofessional” behaviour ?
0