Myth/Fact
Myth: I can say what I want on social media. It’s called freedom of expression. I’m interested in current affairs, and I want to say what I want to say.
Fact: Ontario Certified Teachers (OCTs) need to understand their professional boundaries and responsibilities related to the appropriate use of electronic communications and social media. As a recent Ontario Divisional Court case stated: “When individuals join a regulated profession, they do not lose their Charter right to freedom of expression. At the same time, however, they take on obligations and must abide by the rules of their regulatory body that may limit their freedom of expression.”
Consider whether any online content you post, “like,” “share,” or otherwise endorse may reflect poorly on you, your employer or school, or your colleagues in the teaching profession before you take these actions.
Maintain professional standards by avoiding any insulting or derogatory language.
The College will not tolerate acts of hatred, discrimination, or bias of any kind. Such behaviour can be considered grounds for findings of professional misconduct. OCTs are held to the highest ethical standards, and behaviour that undermines professional principles of equality, inclusivity and respect is unacceptable.
OCTs always represent the teaching profession, both inside and outside of the classroom.
Learn more about the College’s professional advisory on the use of social media and electronic communications.
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