It’s not OK to cheat.
It’s not OK to pass someone else’s work as your own, and to take credit for it. Which ever way you cut it, plagiarism is not OK. This is not about making a political statement, or taking sides; it’s about teaching the next generation the right thing. Shame on those who justify plagiarism (for political gain) as a silly mistake, or as acceptable behavior.
As an educator, it is my professional responsibility to maintain the integrity of the academic process. Copying, cheating, plagiarizing are cardinal sins that carry serious consequences ranging from a failing grade to academic suspension. The policies are written and reinforced on a constant basis. There is zero tolerance for transgressions. I find it insulting that the political pundits casually brush off such incidents as being inconsequential.
Let’s send the right message to our children, and our youth.
Their lives are significantly more important than a political season.
About Hemant Rustogi