We, the members of Music Teachers National Association, having dedicated ourselves to advancement of musical knowledge and education, recommend the following principles of ethical practice as standards of professional conduct.

Responsibilities to Our Students

• The relationship between teacher and student shall be established, maintained and terminated in a professional manner. The teacher shall respect the personal integrity and privacy of students at all times.
• Members are responsible for encouraging, guiding and developing the musical potential of each student.
• Members shall encourage students to participate in community music activities.

Responsibilities to Our Colleagues

• Members shall maintain a professional attitude and shall act with integrity in regard to colleagues in their profession.
• Members shall participate as fully as possible in activities of Music Teachers National Association.
• Members shall provide professional assistance to one another when such assistance is requested.
• Members shall respect the rights of colleagues when speaking of other teachers' work and/or students and shall avoid conflict with the instruction of a student's regular teacher when serving as an interim instructor.

Responsibilities to Our Public

• Members shall maintain the highest standard of moral conduct, professional conduct and personal integrity.
• Members shall exhibit the highest standard of expertise by maintaining their professional abilities in their fields of teaching and performing.
• Members shall maintain and increase the prestige of the art of teaching and shall promote the teaching of music as a culturally enriching profession.
• When asked, members shall assist those seeking guidance in selecting an independent teacher by suggesting the names of two or more teachers in the community. The final choice shall be made by the parent and the student.
• Members shall refrain from making exaggerated claims or misleading statements concerning their teaching qualifications. Advertising copy shall be dignified, strictly truthful and representative of the art of music and its responsibility to the community.

MTNA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2001

The PMTNM Ethics Committee will follow the MTNA Code of Ethics and guidelines. The PMTNM committee is comprised of the President, and Certification Chairman and, if deemed advisable, a member or members appointed by the President at his/her discretion. The purpose of the Ethics Committee shall be to investigate complaints submitted concerning violation of the MTNA Code of Ethics.

Belief Statement

We believe…

• …in our responsibility to provide opportunities for student and teacher enrichment through high standards of musicianship.
• …in fostering a higher level of musical awareness for our students, teachers, and community.

Vision Statement

Enhance life through commitment to quality teaching.

Mission Statement

The mission of PMTNM is to further the art of music through activities and programs that encourage and support music teaching, performance, appreciation and composition for students, teachers and communities.

Written by the Professional Music Teachers of New Mexico
November 9, 2001
Strategic Planning Session
Michael Vallejo, Leader