I am a teacher –
I am an instructor, a listener, a caregiver and a coach. In order to give of myself, I need to value 
myself …
I have the responsibility, ability and power to create a safe, supportive learning environment for my 
students and myself.
I am part of a universal profession that gives, shares and reaches out to the future of the world.

I am a teacher –
I am strong and a person of worth.
My students and I have the right to a workplace that is free from discrimination and harassment.
My working conditions should be guaranteed and fair as they are students’ learning conditions too.
I believe in human rights and the universal right of all children to a quality education regardless of 
their birthright.

I am a teacher –
I am a motivator, a mender of hurt feelings and a problem solver.
I need time to develop the skills of a teacher, as well as time for me.
Time to rejoice, renew and celebrate my professional contribution and the daily miracles I 
experience in my classroom.
I need time to rejuvenate and to connect with my colleagues, my family, my friends and myself.

I am a teacher –
I try my best to model respect, humanity, kindness and honesty. I am not perfect, I make mistakes.
I am a human being with needs and feelings that count.
My needs, my wishes, my dreams and my hopes are important. I have chosen my profession to make 
a difference in the world.

I am a teacher –
I do make a difference!

Source: Jan Moxey and Susan Thede, ETFO Staff, After the Chalk Dust Settles, 2000.

Appendix

A Teacher’s Pledge

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WELCOME TO THE  

ELEMENTARY TEACHERS’ FEDERATION OF ONTARIO 

2014-2015

113 of 116

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