Honor Code

Honor Above Everything.

At Darlington, honor isn't just something we talk about — it's how we live. Since 1915, when students created our Honor Code, it has been the foundation of our community and one of our most cherished traditions.

Our motto, "Wisdom more than Knowledge; Service beyond Self; Honor above Everything," reminds us that character matters just as much as achievement. Every day, students are trusted to make good decisions, take responsibility for their actions, and look out for one another.

The Honor Code is student-led, with Upper School students serving on the Honor Council and helping preserve a culture built on trust, integrity, and accountability. At the beginning of each school year, students and faculty come together for our annual Honor Book Signing Ceremony, where everyone signs the Honor Pledge — a meaningful tradition that marks the start of another year committed to living with integrity.

Darlington's Honor Code is simple, but its impact is lasting:

I will not lie.
I will not cheat.
I will not steal.
I will not tolerate any dishonorable behavior on the part of myself or others.

More than 100 years later, these four principles continue to shape the Darlington experience, creating a community where students are challenged to do what's right, lead with character, and earn the trust of those around them.