1. ISSUES AND ETHICAL PRACTICES

2. Questions on Issues Are these actually issues?
In what ways are they issues for members of your group?
What causes these issues?
What are possible solutions to these issues?
What issues are not on this list that should be there?

3. Ethical Behaviour for EAs
In order to practice ethical behavior, an EA:
demonstrates respect for children and adults.
abides by educational policies, procedures, programs of study, and guidelines specified by educators, administrators, school districts and the Ministry of Education.
demonstrates responsible use of time and resources.
demonstrates ethical and confidential conduct at school and in the community.
manages concerns in the appropriate manner e.g. consult with a teacher first, principal next etc.
participates in personal and professional development training.

4. Ethical Behaviour (cont.)
demonstrates reflective practice.
follows instructions of the professional. 
models punctuality, good attendance and exemplary communication skills and generally acts as a role model.
exercises good judgment and integrity.
demonstrates the ability to separate personal issues from one’s responsibilities.
behaves in a manner that clearly reflects an understanding of the role of the EA in relationship to teachers, parents and students.

5. Practicing Ethics The first rule is to do no harm to students.
Ethical practice means being a role model.
Ethical practice requires confidentiality.
Ethics require consideration of differing viewpoints.
Ethical practice means setting high standards an expectations.

6. Consultation with Families
Benefits of Meaningful Consultation
Avoid angst
Keep everyone solution focused
Maintain mutual respect
Proactively avoid future problems
Avoid wasted time
Find the best possible successful solution for the child
Risks of Not Engaging in Meaningful Consultation
Ongoing difficulty—problems solved without consultation tend to resurface
Growing anger and resentment that may make subsequent consultation difficult
Loss of credibility and trust
Inaction 
Barriers to Meaningful Consultation
Consultation fatigue
Judgment, or a culture of blame
Fear of change (leads to defensiveness)
Use of s that have the potential for misunderstanding
Time pressures

7. Dos and Don’ts for Education Assistants
The EA may: The EA may not :
Be part of the collaborative team
Act independently
Be given specific instruction and management tasks under the direction of a teacher
Be given primary responsibility for instruction and management tasks
Score objective tests and assignments and keep appropriate records for teachers
Be responsible for assigning grades or marking subjective or essay tests
Help the teacher supervise an arrange field trips
Take full responsibility for arranging and supervising field trips
Be involved in team meetings about a specific student
Be assigned to attend meetings with other staff or parents in lieu of the teacher.