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Cheating, Plagiarism, Puma Honor Code, Academic Honesty

Board Policy 5131.9 Students/ Academic Honesty

We believe that academic honesty and personal integrity are fundamental components of a student’s education and character development.  We expect that students will not cheat, lie, plagiarize or commit other acts of academic dishonesty.  When people cheat they undermine this goal, compromising themselves and the school.  We hope that this honor code clarifies what behavior is acceptable and sends a clear message: grades are meant to be a reflection of what students have learned. During a class session in remote learning, if a student is questioned about cheating, they may be brought to administration to investigate.

What is cheating?

Cheating is using, copying, or taking another person’s work, information, ideas or research without properly identifying or crediting the originator. It is also when a student willfully allows others to use their work to copy for credit without the teacher’s permission or approval. It can be having another tab open on a computer during a test, quiz, or examination to assist with doing their work. If a student is unsure about a specific situation, the student must ask the teacher for clarification BEFORE engaging in the action. The teacher will gladly and clearly explain what is expected and allowable, and what is not.

  • 1ST violation:  Referral to Counselor or Assistant Principal, grade of zero or F on assignment/quiz/test, and parent notification.
  • 2nd violation:  Referral to Assistant Principal, in-house suspension or ATS for one day from class, grade of zero or F on assignment/quiz/test, parent conference, student behavior contract, and referral to Wellness Counselor.
  • 3rd violation: Referral to the Principal, parent conference, 1-day suspension and drop F from the course.

In each case, the teacher and Principal’s professional judgment will determine whether cheating and a violation of the Puma Code has occurred.  Students are reminded not to give the teacher reason to suspect that cheating has taken place.