Where Should Ethical Leaders Look for Guidance?
The days of, "That's the way we've always done it," are gone. Understanding the
ethical decision-making process has become a critical tool for those who lead America's
schools. It is not clear that any amount of scientific inquiry can tell us whether a decision
is fair, just, or equitable. When making ethical decisions, the decision-maker must also
look beyond his own religious beliefs and personal values. This was a problem in Atlas
Shrugged, (Rand, 1957). A grand transportation system eventually collapsed because
business matters were not based on the best practices for the business. A decision maker
has to consider his rights and beliefs but ethical decisions must take into consideration the
rights and interests of other stakeholders. This is the point where it becomes essential for
leaders to be strongly rooted. Ethical leaders must balance their beliefs with a plethora of
rules and regulations. Everyone needs philosophy. Philosophy is essential in each
person's life. Those who do not think philosophically are the helpless victims of the ideas
they accept from others (ARI, 2006).
Educators in a democratic society must educate students and attempt to provide
them the motivation to be the best that the can be. Educators must attempt to give
everyone the same educational opportunities as we wrestle with “No Child Left Behind”
legislation. With all of the pressures from the state level, we must also try to resist the
temptation to use try and apply the cookie cutter method that Rand describes in The
Anthem (1938).
When making ethical decisions, the decision-maker must also look beyond his
religious beliefs and personal values. A decision maker has to consider his rights and
beliefs, but ethical decisions must take into consideration the rights and interests of other
stake holders. For example, permitting student led prayer at football games was ruled
unconstitutional because it did not take into consideration the rights and interests of
persons outside the Christianity. Decisions must not be based on personal religious
beliefs. Decisions should not violate the moral rights of persons with different beliefs.
Decision-makers must be aware of the difference between the right to hold an
opinion on a matter of private concern, and the right to use that opinion as the basis for
moral decision-making. We must strive to help each student realize his potential as a
worthy and effective member of society. Educators; therefore, must work to stimulate the
spirit of inquiry, the acquisition of knowledge and understanding, and the thoughtful
formulation of worthy goals (NEA, 2006).
There are many sources for guidance that an ethical leader must refer to and
adhere to in order to remain employed. Those obvious sources are: the educator’s code of
conduct, the local board policy (this will include federal, state and local guidelines),
district/campus handbooks and district/campus plans. The ultimate source of guidance
comes from within the leader himself. This would be his creator’s plan. This plan is built
experiences and input from many sources, including authors such as Ayn Rand.
Fresh copy to be cached until 6:38:00 PM |
