Academic Integrity: Cheating Policy
Definition of Cheating
Cheating involves employing dishonest methods to gain an unfair advantage during academic assessments. This behavior is typically intentional and premeditated, and may include, but is not limited to:
- Using unauthorized aids, such as cheat sheets.
- Allowing eyes to wander to view others’ work during exams.
- Capturing and sharing photos of tests or exams.
- Employing electronic devices during assessments.
- Stealing exam materials or memorizing answer keys.
- Inputting test questions into calculators without clearing them afterward.
General Consequences for Cheating
In all instances of cheating:
- The administration will be promptly notified.
- Parents/guardians will be contacted, and a conference involving the administration, parents/guardians, and the subject teacher will be scheduled.
- Staff may refuse to provide reference letters for the student.
Consequences for Cheating on a Test
- First Offense: The student will be permitted to complete the test. Following submission, the teacher will conduct a counseling session to reinforce the severity of cheating and its long-term repercussions.
- Second Offense: A mark of zero will be assigned to the cheated portion of the test.
- Third or Subsequent Offense: The student will be required to withdraw from the course, potentially resulting in the loss of credit.
Consequences for Cheating on an Examination
- First Offense: The student will be allowed to finish the examination. Afterward, they will be escorted to the principal. The student must then complete a second, alternative examination of equivalent or greater difficulty. A mark of zero will be given for the cheated section, and parents/guardians will be informed of the incident and the grading adjustment.
- Second Offense: The student will complete the examination and then be brought to the principal. The principal will remove the student from the course, leading to the loss of credit, and parents/guardians will be notified.
