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Definition of Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is the commitment to honesty, trust, fairness, respect, and responsibility in all academic work. Engaging in any form of academic dishonesty or misconduct to obtain academic credit or advantage is a serious offence under this policy.

Examples of Academic Dishonesty:

  • Plagiarism:

    • Copying or paraphrasing the work of others without proper citation

    • Misrepresenting someone else’s work as one’s own

    • Copying another student’s work

    • Translating work from one language to another without citation

    • Using the same piece of work for two different courses or assignments

  • Cheating:

    • Viewing or using unauthorized materials during tests or exams

    • Bringing unauthorized notes or electronic devices into an examination

    • Giving or receiving unauthorized aid on assignments or tests

    • Sharing or copying another student’s work

    • Theft of tests or examination materials

Roles and Responsibilities

Teacher:

  • Assemble relevant evidence and interview the student if academic dishonesty is suspected.

  • If the explanation is satisfactory, the process stops.

  • If the explanation is unsatisfactory or if dishonesty is denied, the teacher must communicate with the Principal or designate within 24 hours.

Principal:

  • Examine the evidence and interview the student(s).

  • Inform parent(s) as needed about the investigation, including the allegations, policy, and potential outcomes.

Guidelines for Deciding Consequences of Academic Dishonesty

Examinations:

  • Academic dishonesty on Midterm and Final exams warrants expulsion and may result in that decision.

Other Evaluations, Assignments, or Tests:

  • Grades 9, 10, and 11:

    • First Offence: Receive a zero on the test or assignment, then complete an alternative assignment with a maximum value of up to 50% of the original assignment.

    • Repeated Offences: Parent(s) informed, zero on the test or assignment, complete an alternative assignment with a maximum value of up to 50%, and a one-day in-school suspension.

  • Grade 12/Pre-University:

    • First Offence: Receive a zero on the test or assignment, complete an alternative assignment with a maximum value of up to 50%, inform parents, and write a letter demonstrating understanding and assurance against future dishonesty.

    • Repeated Offences: Zero on the test or assignment with no opportunity for an alternative assignment, zero included in the final grade calculation, and potential further disciplinary action up to expulsion.

Importance of Academic Integrity

Maintaining academic integrity is essential for fostering a culture of honesty and responsibility. Students must understand the seriousness of academic dishonesty and its consequences. This policy ensures that all students have a clear understanding of the expectations and the importance of integrity in their academic journey.

Academic Integrity

Upholding the Standards of Academic Excellence

CIC Ontario Secondary School Academic Integrity Policy is designed to align with the Ontario Ministry of Education’s Growing Success Document. Read the Growing Success Document 

Our goal is to ensure that all students understand and adhere to the highest standards of academic honesty, preparing them for future academic and professional success.

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