Academic integrity is the foundation of any great school. At Highland Park High School, the Honor Council plays a vital role in protecting that foundation while also giving students the opportunity to learn from mistakes and grow. The council exists not simply to punish dishonesty, but to create a fair process where students can be heard and reminded of the value of honesty in both school and life.
The Honor Council’s primary responsibility is to hear cases involving allegations of academic dishonesty. When disputes arise, council members listen to both the student and the teacher, carefully deliberate, and make a recommendation to administrators about whether the student is responsible or not.
This process is important because it ensures fairness. Instead of decisions being made without student perspective, peers are involved in evaluating what happened and helping guide the outcome.
However, the council’s role goes beyond hearings. Members also help educate the student body about academic integrity and encourage students to hold themselves and each other accountable.
In a competitive academic environment, the pressure to take shortcuts can sometimes feel overwhelming. The Honor Council reminds everyone that true success comes from honesty and hard work.
Serving on the Honor Council is both an honor and a responsibility. Members must demonstrate strong character, maintain academic eligibility, and uphold the highest standards of integrity.
Because council members review confidential cases and represent the values of the school, they are expected to be role models within the HPHS community.
Students who want to serve can apply each spring. Applications for the upcoming year must be handwritten and submitted to Dr. Erica Redman by 3:35 PM on Tuesday, March 31. Review the linked packet for more information
Applicants also need teacher recommendations and will go through an interview process before finalists are placed on the student ballot.
The Honor Council represents the belief that integrity matters. By participating, students help ensure that fairness, honesty, and accountability remain central values at Highland Park High School.