The Licensure Code of Professional Conduct for Ohio Educators is the guidance document used by the State Board of Education in cases of conduct unbecoming and serves as the basis for decisions that may affect licensure. It applies to all credentialed individuals and applicants, including teachers, administrators, coaches, and educational aides.
Ohio educators are entrusted with providing high-quality education in safe, supportive environments where all students can learn and thrive. The professional conduct of educators influences public trust and reflects on the integrity of the profession. To uphold public confidence, educators maintain the highest standards of professional conduct—for themselves and their peers.
The Code of Conduct covers 9 Principles:
- Professional Behavior
- Professional Relationships with Students
- Accurate Reporting
- Criminal Acts
- Confidentiality
- Use, Possession, or Unlawful Distribution of Alcohol, Drugs and Tobacco
- Financial Management and Improper Compensation for Personal Gain
- Commitment to Contract
- Appropriate and Responsible Use of Technology
All licensed, registered, and credentialed individuals are expected to read and adhere to these principles.
Tip Sheets
The State has developed Tip Sheets to support educator understanding of the most common Code of Conduct violations. Use these Tip Sheets to help support staff or for your own knowledge.
Report Misconduct
Before you submit your misconduct referral
The Office of Professional Conduct will review every referral received to determine whether to open a full investigation into the incident. Before submitting a referral form, please confirm that the following applies:
- Report is about an individual licensed educator;
- Report is related to misconduct by the licensed educator under the Licensure Code of Professional Conduct for Ohio Educators;
- The matter has been reported to the local school or district; and
- The matter has been reported to children services or police, if necessary.
Citizen Reporting Form
The following form should be used by anyone submitting a referral on their own behalf including parents, students, educators, and other citizens.
School or District Reporting Form
Schools and districts are required to make certain reports to the State Board under Ohio law. Discretionary reports of educator misconduct are also encouraged. Please use the form below for this purpose:
Schools and districts may report a teacher for a broken contract after the July 10th deadline. The following form must be fully completed with required attachments for the office to move forward with an investigation into a broken contract.