An Educator's Oath

I have always lamented the fact that there is no Hippocratic Oath for the teaching profession. As much impact as teachers and schools have on the lives of children and society at large, few educators are forced to reflect on whether they are actually doing good or, at the very least, doing "no harm."

It looks like, in the near future, I may be called upon to aid in the independent education of a young individual who I've come to know. So that I don't make the same mistakes I've seen many of my teachers make, I have written my own oath to help remind me of my duty and intent.

I have chosen not to call it "A Teacher's Oath" because I don't want to think of myself as a "teacher" per se. The word teacher, to me, carries connotations of authority, management, and being responsible for children. I never want to boss students around, decide what I think is best for them, or dictate whether or not they can perform a basic bodily function, such as going to the restroom. I don't believe in that kind of unchecked power. Consequently, I am using the more general and abstract word "educator."

Here is my oath...

As an educator, I pledge to act as a guide and facilitator to support the learning processes of my students and their growth as individuals. I will apply my knowledge, wisdom, and experience to aid them so that they may ultimately answer their calling and lead happy, healthy, and productive lives.

I shall strive to connect my students with their passions, expose them to the unknown, help them to confront their fears, cultivate their wisdom and understanding, and foster their humanity. I will inspire them, teach them, advise them, and console them, but above all else, I will recognize that the journey is theirs to make their own.

I will continually evaluate my own motives, actions, and their consequences so that I may do no harm, but instead, better the lives of my students and help them to realize the vast potential of their futures. To that end, I will endeavor to temper my ego so that I may be able to distinguish between the needs of my students—what is appropriate for each of them individually—and the manifestations of my own fears and desires. Furthermore, I will not choose to compromise my students for my own administrative efficiency or convenience.

I recognize that education is a process of personal growth that continues on throughout all of one's life. Therefore, I must be willing to learn alongside my students and not forsake my own ongoing education. I will be open to feedback and criticism so that I may continue to grow and expand my own possibilities as an educator.

No matter what difficulties or hardships I may endure as an educator, I pledge to hold true to this oath.

--Andrew Chen