Ode of Ethics

How does one decide what to do,

When cultivating classrooms and fighting off a coup?

Do you break through the crew with a “please” to subdue?

Or do you take to bamboo to eschew the ballyhoo?

With ethical decisions, you must be resolute,

For the nonsense your pupils surely will see through.

So sit back and get through, this lesson I impart to you

For ethics is the topic to expand your world view.

The E is for “everyone” of course we should include,

For to preclude a single student is more than being rude.

All students are important, we must not misconstrue.

A child in the classroom shouldn’t feel that they intrude.

The T is for “treasure” an action far up in the queue.

Hold in high regard these kids, they need to feel valued.

Cherish, commend, and give credit when it’s due,

Feeling a part of the crew is as meaningful as food.

The H is for “heritage” a trait not to be pursued,

Never should race squeak through in comments that are lewd.

Diversity is crucial and always should be viewed,

As redeeming and harmonizing and not at any time seclude.

The I is for “insist” that students work hard and push through,

Give them meaningful advice each day for knowledge is accrued.

Don’t allow them to conclude it’s ok to be subdued,

For if you do, their future skewed, they may sell convenience food.

The C is for the “challenge” that should always be pursued,

By every single teacher, much more than two plus two.

Learning is more than memorization, at least, according to Dr. Bloom,

Relevance creates engagement which makes it stick like glue.

So finally we reach the S, I hope you’re all amused,

The S stands for the “service” we provide, and yourselves you must outdo.

Respect for the craft caught you, always in hot pursuit.

To this cohort, a drink or two, and I bid you all adieu!