Stacia post
The core values that best relate to this situation include: basing work on the knowledge of how children develop and recognizing that children achieve their full potential in the context of relationships that are based on trust and respect. In this particular situation, I am responsible for all of the children in my care.
Within the NAEYC Code the most relevant statement to this situation is found in Principles 1.1. This principle, rightfully so, has precedence over all other principles within this particular code. The code clearly states that above all, children shall not be harmed. Practices that are emotionally damaging, physically harmful, disrespectful, degrading, dangerous, exploitative, or intimidating are not within the parameters of the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct.
This code is relevant to the situation addressed as stated in P-1.5 “We shall use appropriate assessment systems….” In the situation, the assessment system is not appropriate as one of the core values is to be knowledgeable of
the way that children learn and develop. As highly qualified educational professionals, it is our responsibility to know and understand the children we teach.
Research has proven that standardized testing is not best practice for young children. Also, removing children from an environment where they feel safe pushes the limits of the code of conduct for early childhood education. As previously mentioned, the guiding principle in 1.1 describes how it is the responsibility of educators to keep children safe. While the assessing is taking place, another professional is being left alone with children. Not only is this stressful for the aid, it is not safe for the children she is now solely responsible for. As an early childhood professional, I would bring this situation of standardized testing, removing children from the learning environment, and lack of supervision to the immediate supervisor or director of the program. I would also use the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct and Statement of Commitment to defend my stance.