Trinity Honor Council

Trinity School relies on a set of values and competencies to set a moral compass for students and faculty. We adhere to a code, the Honor Code, which states: “Because I believe that integrity is essential, I promise not to lie, cheat, or steal, or tolerate those who do.” This code is the cornerstone of each Trinity Charger and creates an environment of trust. However, sometimes, since we are human, this code is violated.  When this occurs, the Trinity Honor Council is convened to determine the correct course of action. 

The Trinity Honor Council is made up of eight upperclassmen: two seniors, two juniors, two sophomores, and two freshmen. Their teachers nominate them, and the finalists are selected by their peers. These students serve for the remainder of their upper school years. Yearly training assures that the Council is making the best decisions based on the latest research.  

While appearing before the Council is not pleasant, the process is meant to be more restorative than punitive. It is not the intent of the Council to pass judgment on the student, but rather on the isolated action that the student took. When an Honor Code violation occurs, the teacher takes that concern to the Dean of Students, who, along with the teacher, determines whether the Council should be convened.

The student is brought before the eight-member body and given the opportunity to explain the circumstances surrounding the alleged violation of the Honor Code. The teacher also gives a statement explaining why he or she believes the student violated the Code. After hearing all of the evidence, the Council makes a consequence recommendation. This often includes a letter of apology, a reduction in grade, and an opportunity to complete a new assignment to ensure the student is learning the material. The Council recommendation is taken to the Head of School, Mrs. Hammer, who has final authority over the consequence recommendation. 

The process is private and confidential. The student’s advisor is with the student accused during the process and is encouraged to support the student with questions or clarifications during the Council process. The hope is that the experience is a one-time event and lessons are learned here in a safe environment rather than in a larger college environment where the ramifications could be much more severe. 

By having students administer the Honor Code, it is hoped that the entire student body will take ownership of the Code and hold each other accountable. It is the hope of this Dean of Students that each student learns from the experience and moves forward in a positive and restorative manner. Hebrews 12:11 states, “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”  This is the intended result of the Honor Code and Council process.