"I shall not lie, cheat, nor steal, nor tolerate those who do."
Who knew 12 words could mean so much? I mean, those are some pretty powerful words. So, what do you do when those words are put to the test?
A week or so ago, I was put into a tough position. Which was more important? Making friends, or keeping myself true to the Honor Code?
I decided to hold true to the Honor Code.
So, these kids decided to cheat on a test the second the teacher walked out of the room. After class, I told the teacher, but the teacher said, because he didn't see it, he couldn't do anything about it. But, he did compliment me on stepping up and saying something.
I can see where that makes sense, but then no one gets punished for doing anything wrong. What student is going to cheat when the teacher is watching them?
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Angel,
ReplyDeleteWhile no one wants to admit it, cheating is common in today's schools both public and private. It is so common that many teachers, as you saw, are kind of immune to it. It was one of the reasons I altered my class structure, from one based on paper work to one based participation. Funny thing, you can't copy participation even if they try. Here are a couple of more scary lessons that you will learn. The biggest cheaters are the smart kids/honor kids. They are the best at it. Also, they are not necessary kind to those that do not help them. There will be a day when they ask you for your answers, their story will be good. They will say they already did the assignment but just forgot it, or they just want to check their answers to yours. By this time in their lives they are pros at cheating. They don’t see the problem with it. They don’t understand why it is morally wrong.
Now, here are my questions to you, do you join them and give up your morals and values? Do you violate that honor code? Can you live with yourself if you do? What good are values and morals if you don't honor them? I am proud of you for making the choice that you did. It shows true character. I hope you continue to make that choice. I know several students who do and several who did and they are better for it.
As for kids cheating while they teacher is watching, they will, it is a great challenge that they will brag about later. Also, you might think your teacher is not doing anything but it is a good bet steps will be taking to curb the cheating in the future. At least most of the teachers I know would do something, even if they don't tell the kids what they are doing.
Remember, life is about choices and we have to live by the choices that we make. You are on your way to are full and rewarding life, keep it up. Again, I am proud of you.