South Ridge Elementary
Primary Years Programme
Academic Integrity Policy
Revised: Apr 10, 2024 May 1, 2024 Jun 25, 2024
South Ridge Elementary - Academic
Integrity Policy
Beliefs
At South Ridge Elementary, we believe that academic integrity is integral to the development of
our students, reflecting the values of the IB Learner Profile. Through displaying academic
honesty, students embody attributes such as being principled, caring, risk-takers, and thinkers.
By adhering to these principles, students commit to upholding the standards of academic
integrity and avoid any form of academic misconduct.
Professional Responsibility of Staff:
All staff members are required to familiarize themselves with this policy and related documents
to accurately communicate its contents to the school community. Staff members should seek
clarification from the coordinator if needed. It is expected that this policy and related documents
are followed by all staff members. Teachers play a crucial role in promoting honest, creative work
by designing inquiry-based assessment tasks, teaching proper citation methods, and
encouraging reflection.
Purpose of Academic Integrity Policy:
The purpose of our Academic Integrity Policy is to ensure transparency, fairness, and
consistency in our school's procedures. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of all members
of the school community, clarifying what constitutes good academic practice and misconduct,
along with the actions to be taken in case of violations.
Understanding Academic Integrity:
Academic integrity entails honesty, integrity, and a commitment to the inquiry-action-reflection
cycle. It requires students to take ownership of their work, giving due credit to external sources.
In an era of technological advancement, it is essential to prevent plagiarism and collusion,
promoting originality in students' work.
Forms of Academic Dishonesty:
Academic dishonesty may include plagiarism, copying, assessment cheating, and collusion. Our
school encourages academic honesty through regular discussions with parents, fostering an
understanding of the learner profile values, and clearly outlining consequences for dishonest
behavior.
Handling Academic Dishonesty:
If a teacher suspects academic dishonesty, they will inform the coordinator and investigate the
matter. If evidence supports the accusation, appropriate consequences will be applied, with
parents kept informed throughout the process.
Consequences of Academic Dishonesty:
Consequences vary based on the severity of the offense, ranging from re-doing assignments to
recording incidents in progress reports. Repeat offenses escalate consequences, with severe
cases addressed by school administration.
Roles in Promoting Academic Integrity:
Parents are encouraged to support academic honesty by understanding the policy, motivating
originality, and fostering effective time management. Administrators play a role in establishing a
culture of academic honesty and ensuring clear consequences for dishonest behavior.
Guidelines to Avoid Academic Dishonesty:
Clear guidelines are provided to students to avoid dishonesty, emphasizing proper citation,
acknowledgment of sources, and adherence to referencing standards.
For further guidance, the IB publication "Effective citing and referencing" is recommended.
At South Ridge Elementary, we are committed to fostering a community where academic
integrity is valued and upheld by all members.