MS Students Affirm Honor Code During Special Assembly

The middle school community gathered the afternoon of August 30 in the Barker Performing Arts Center, where they affirmed The Benjamin School’s Honor Code during a special annual assembly. 

Head of Middle School Charles Hagy welcomed sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students to the occasion hosted by the division’s Student Services Department. He introduced new faculty member Ronnie Kane, who recently transferred from the upper school, as the ceremony’s guest speaker. 

Kane shared what living a life of honor means to him, through the metaphor of wearing many hats. Each hat, he said, represents pride and honor in some way. From the hat of academic integrity, to that of pursuits outside the classroom, and a students’ off-campus hat, each should be worn with responsibility and dignity, Kane said. 

“Many hats are better than one,” said Kane. “Each symbolizes a piece of your Benjamin experience. Or, as I like to say, the head, hands, and heart. Take all the hats with you; honor lives under them.” 

“If you make a mistake, recognize it and be honest,” he said. “It will not define you. You will be forgiven and loved. After all, this is your home away from home.”

Dean of Students Nick Crisafi followed Kane’s keynote speech with a recitation of the Honor Code Pledge. Students and faculty then etched their names in the pages of Honor Code books, affirming their commitment to upholding the Honor Code during their middle school careers. 

Ms. Latimer closed the assembly with a stirring rendition of the school’s Alma Mater.