Dunn Middle School 2003 - 2004 Handbook Expectations:   The DMS Honor Code The Carpe Diem Spirit Setting an Example Rules and Consequences

The DMS Honor Code While this handbook is designed to provide information for parents and students in order to be as successful as possible at DMS, one of the most frequently asked questions we receive is What are the rules? We do have a few clear rules involving dress code, use of telephone, boundaries, homework expectations, etc. Nevertheless, a person can abide by all rules, even a thick book of rules, and still behave unethically. The DMS Class of 2002 brainstormed a variety of guidelines in order to determine an Honor Code. This discussion led to the development of the Honor Code on the next page It is our hope that students and DMS employees will read and live by the DMS Honor Code more than be obsessed with specific rules. We believe that people have the ability to control who they are and how they behave. We believe that our students and employees choose to be good and enjoy being surrounded by people who choose to do the same. The great philosopher Plato wrote dialogues that are often quoted about ideal behavior. Plato gets his concept of the good life from the model of a craftsperson making something. They either do it right or not; it doesn't matter who notices, and doing it right is the reward no matter who else notices. Plato wants us to be excellent in the craft of living. This is fundamentally different from the modern notion of "don't get caught." Here is our DMS Honor Code. All teachers, students, and support staff agree to these principles.

DMS Honor Code We agree to... Treat ourselves and others fairly and with respect; Be honest; Tolerate and honor our differences; Be as helpful as possible and a good friend to others; Abide by the law; Refuse to tolerate anyone who does not abide by this Honor Code.