Teaching Is a Profession: Introducing the State 48 Educator Profile

There’s a new vision for an Arizona graduate. A new vision for students and graduates, though, requires a new vision for teachers.

As Executive Director Daniela Robles, NBCT, noted in her Welcome to a New School Year video message, the Arizona K12 Center’s theme for the year is “Teaching is a Profession.”

What does that mean? Teaching is a profession grounded in specialized knowledge, professional practice, continuous learning, and a deep commitment to students, families, and communities. Every day, educators as professionals apply expertise, refine their craft, and collaborate with colleagues to create meaningful opportunities for every learner.

As a part of detailing the needed skills, competencies, and mindsets to educate future-ready students according to the State 48 Graduate Profile, the Arizona K12 Center has created the State 48 Educator Profile.

The profile is grounded in a simple but powerful belief: every Arizona educator has the capacity to learn, lead, and contribute throughout their professional journey. Leadership is not reserved for a title or position; it emerges through relationships, reflection, advocacy, service, and continuous growth. By creating a shared language around educator identity, the profile celebrates the many ways educators influence learners, colleagues, schools, and communities every day.

The State 48 Educator Profile above is a first iteration. Provide your feedback to help us continue to improve this framework!