The school theme RISE as leaders of tomorrow, demonstrating Respect, Empathy, Skill acquisition and Empathy will continue to guide us, as we move into 2021.
As mentioned in the earlier newsletters, I will share my thoughts on the acronym RISE in the monthly Principal’s newsletter, that you will receive every month. Every letter of the word RISE has 2 attributes that I would be focusing on. The last 2 newsletters spoke about Respect and Resilience. This month the focus will be on the letter I, which stands for Integrity.
“The supreme quality for leadership is unquestionably integrity. Without it, no real success is possible, whether it is on a section gang, a football field, in an army, or in an office.” – Dwight D. Eisenhower
So what exactly is Integrity?
Integrity is said to be the act of behaving honourably, even when no one is watching. People with integrity follow morals and principles in all aspects of life. Integrity extends to professional areas at work such as decision making, interacting with colleagues and serving others.
At school, we focus on teaching students not only personal integrity, which is one of our school’s core values, but we also lay special emphasis on Academic Integrity.
What would Personal Integrity mean for student leaders?
It is rightly said, People with integrity tell the truth and act in a sincere way. They treat people equally and take responsibility for their own feelings and actions. Integrity is more than just being honest; it's acting ethically, consistently, and in a trustworthy manner.
What is a good example of integrity for students?
It could mean any or all of these: Keeping your promises even if it takes extra effort. Going back to a store and paying for something you forgot to pay for. Never betraying a friend's trust even if you get in trouble. Informing the cashier, he gave you too much change back, telling the teacher that he has given extra marks on a question, going all the way down while doing your pushups even when the coach is not watching or completing your assignments without looking at answers in the book.
What then does academic honesty mean and why is it so very important for our students and student leaders?
Academic integrity is defined aptly as being fundamental to learning, teaching and research at school. It allows students and staff the freedom to build new ideas, knowledge and creative works while respecting and acknowledging the work of others.
It is a commitment, even in the face of adversity, to six fundamental values: honesty, trust, fairness, respect, responsibility, and courage." At a young age, children have the ability to learn the importance of these six character traits. At every given opportunity in school, we emphasize the following points with our students.
- Lead by example
- Exercise open communication
- Be accountable for your actions
- Report inappropriate, unethical behaviour
- Be civil and respectful
- Exercise patience and emotional control
Students can also be taught to assess their level of integrity by asking the following questions:
- Am I accountable for my behaviour and the decisions I make?
- Do I accept responsibility for my mistakes?
- Am I setting a good example for my peers?
- Do I always follow through on my commitments and promises?
- Do I act in ways that build trust with my peers?
Here are 10 rules of academic honesty for student and student leaders to hold them in good stead as they move along in their learning journey.
As mentioned earlier, Integrity is an attribute that leaders must have in abundance and we wish for all our students to grow in it as they journey with us at school.
Cheers and warm regards,
Melissa Maria
Principal
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