Lead With Integrity.
Uphold Ethics in Health and Physical Education. SHAPE America’s Code of Ethics position statement outlines shared values and responsibilities for health educators, physical educators and wellness professionals. It affirms the highest standards of competency and integrity in all professional roles.
WHY IT MATTERS Ethical practice strengthens our profession and safeguards every learning environment. It also: Builds public trust and professional credibility; Promotes equitable and inclusive educator conduct; Supports principled decision-making in complex situations. Leading with integrity helps create safe, inclusive and effective learning environments that support all students.
EXAMPLES OF ETHICAL PRACTICE Responsibility Area
What It Looks Like in Practice
Student Well-Being
Prioritize inclusion, safety, confidentiality and student rights
Professional Integrity
Demonstrate transparency, consistency and competence
Instructional Responsibility
Deliver accurate, standards-based content with fairness and care
Workplace Ethics
Honor commitments, collaborate respectfully, communicate clearly
Research & Evaluation
Ensure confidentiality, informed consent and unbiased reporting
Professional Growth
Engage in reflection, mentorship and lifelong learning
LEAD BY EXAMPLE You are more than a content expert — you are a role model. Aim to: Uphold honesty, fairness and professionalism; Respect the dignity, rights and identities of all students and colleagues; Advocate for evidence-based, equitable practices; Commit to continuous learning and ethical reflection; Lead through your actions — in every setting, every day.
Integrity is the standard. Not situational. Not optional. View the full SHAPE America position statement. Copyright © 2026 by SHAPE America | shapeamerica.org | All rights reserved. PO Box 225, Annapolis Junction, MD 20701 | 800.213.9527