Ok, so school teachers are overworked and underpaid, but does that give them the right to complain or become complacent? They have chosen a profession that molds and shapes young lives and future leaders. Outside of parents, how many can claim that? But who can also guarantee that teachers are doing their jobs properly? The same can be asked of lawyers and doctors, who are unequivocally entrusted with our day to day social and physical well- being. The difference is that the latter have taken an oath to serve in the most ethical and professional matter or else be stripped of their rights to perform. Recently, two American University of Beirut College of education students received awards for outstanding work as student-teachers and on their graduation day they joined their peers in a pledge ceremony that has been taking place for over 10 years. The pledge reads:
“I pledge to lead the life of an educator, to promote moral and academic excellence. I pledge to advance a learning environment, to encourage students to venture, to seek and persevere. I pledge to be an instrument of inspiration to transmit integrity, respect and trust. I pledge to dedicate myself to the welfare of my profession, to nurture the aspirations of future generations.”
Before we recognize teachers for who they are and give them the respect they deserve, shouldn’t teachers everywhere be taking an oath before taking a bow?
