CLEVELAND, Tenn. (Jan. 27, 2010)—“If you’re paid to work 40 hours a week but show up 30 minutes late every day, what does this say about you as an employee? How should your employer respond?”

This was but one scenario presented to four classes at Walker Valley High School recently as part of the “Ethics in the Classroom” emphasis presented by the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce as a response to employee needs expressed by local employers.

Over 100 high school juniors were impacted by ethics and values discussions led by Lyle Swartzel, Regions Bank; Darlene Porter, Randstad; and Sherry Crye and Lisa Pickel, Chamber staff

Students were divided into groups and then given a series of questions that required students to respond and, in so doing, examine the right and wrong side of a situation. These situations gave the speakers an opportunity to introduce students to the concept of ethics by asking such questions as “How does this situation affect me?” and “Does it affect others?”

“The situations presented to the students are real life and allow them to engage in group discussion about their values and reasons for their answers,” Lisa Pickel, director of existing industry programs, explained.

“This program is designed as a thought-provoking exercise for students and to help them realize their actions impact both their personal and work life.”

Pickel also expressed thanks on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce to Walker Valley teachers Debbie Huffstetler, Jake Willcutt, Joe Shamblin and Rudy Felton for the opportunity to speak to their students. 

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