Academic Integrity Policy

Academic integrity is essential to ensuring that every graduate of American Royal High School earns a diploma that reflects genuine learning and personal accomplishment. Students must complete coursework honestly and uphold the highest standards of integrity throughout their studies.

1. Expectations for Academic Integrity

Students are expected to:

Submit their own original work
Complete assessments without unauthorized assistance
Cite outside sources when applicable
Ask for clarification when unsure of assignment expectations
Maintain honesty in all academic activities

2. Prohibited Actions

Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to:

Plagiarism or copying material without proper credit
Submitting coursework completed by someone else
Using unauthorized resources during quizzes or assessments
Sharing test answers or assignments with others
Altering grades or tampering with school records

No diploma or transcript will be issued until all financial obligations are met.

3. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools

American Royal High School recognizes that AI tools such as ChatGPT, generative writing tools, and automated homework assistants are becoming more common. These tools can be useful for learning when used appropriately, but they must not replace a student’s own academic effort.
3.1 Permitted Uses of AI: Students may use AI tools for: General concept explanations, Study support or tutoring assistance, Brainstorming ideas before writing, Clarifying instructions, Practicing skills or reviewing content. These uses support learning without substituting authentic student work.
3.2 Prohibited Uses of AI: Students may not use AI tools to: Generate written assignments, essays, or responses and submit them as their own, Complete quizzes, tests, or assessments, Rewrite or paraphrase entire assignments for the purpose of bypassing original work, Bypass reading or lesson requirements, Produce work that does not reflect the student’s own understanding. Submitting AI-generated or AI-written work as your own is considered a violation of academic integrity.
3.3 How ARHS Handles Suspected AI Violations: If an instructor believes AI was used improperly, the assignment may be reviewed and the student may be asked to: Explain the submitted work, Redo the assignment, Complete an alternative assessment, Participate in an academic integrity review. Repeated or serious violations may lead to academic consequences or removal from the program.
3.4 ARHS Encourages Responsible Use: We encourage students to use AI as a learning aid, not a shortcut. Asking questions and seeking explanations is always welcome. Learning how to use modern tools responsibly is an important skill, and we want students to benefit from technology while still demonstrating their own knowledge.

4. Consequences of Academic Dishonesty

Consequences may include:
Redoing the assignment
Earning a reduced or failing grade
Academic warnings
Course invalidation
Suspension or dismissal in severe cases

Each situation is reviewed individually and handled with fairness.

5. Support for Students

Students who are unsure about proper academic practices should reach out for guidance. Our goal is to help every learner succeed while maintaining the integrity and value of the diploma.