Montclair Kimberley Academy

"Knowledge, Vision, Integrity" - The ideals inscribed on the MKA school seal inform a nationally recognized Ethics and Character Development program that is vital and relevant to students' learning and growth and integral to all aspects of the school community.

Based on the expectation that there is no more secure foundation for having a good life than leading a good life, each campus provides an environment rich in reminders and opportunities for learning, action and reflection on key aspects of ethical behavior. In classrooms, hallways and athletic fields, teachers utilize "teachable moments" to reinforce good character, and as their children's "first teachers," parents are essential partners in the program. Each summer, national scholars work with faculty in the study of significant ethical works by authors such as Plato, Aristotle and Dante, and faculty work on lesson plans that integrate ethics into the curriculum. In addition, many of the Core Works that students study from pre-kindergarten on were selected for their relevant ethical issues, and numerous Service Learning opportunities exist on each campus for students to put what they learn into practice.

Students in grades 7 - 12 pledge to follow a Code of Honor that reinforces the value of integrity. Written by a committee of elected student representatives, the new Code of Honor was approved by the student body in June of 2004.  In 2007, another group of Upper School students led discussions to adapt the language of MKA's original Character Expectations, creating a revised set of Character Standards (see below) more accessible to the entire MKA community. 

When the Ethics program garnered a National Blue Ribbon Special Award of Distinction at the Middle School in September 2000, the site visitor noted, "The Montclair Kimberley Academy's character education program and emphasis on ethics in the daily lives of all community members is truly the jewel in their crown." 

Character Standards for the MKA Community

All members of the MKA community strive to act, speak, and think in ways that are:

Respectful: We act with civility in our relations with others while still valuing ourselves. We are conscious of the world around us and recognize the worth of all we have and treat it accordingly.

Friendly: We demonstrate good will and compassion in our relationships with others. We understand that in order to have friends we must be friends and treat all with understanding, loyalty, and respect.

Responsible: We fulfill obligations and complete tasks to the fullest of our ability, and we are accountable members of our community. We volunteer our assistance when called upon and budget our time, efforts, and resources sensibly.

Confident: We uphold a positive image of ourselves regardless of the way others perceive us. We recognize our potential and challenge ourselves to improve the talents and skills we possess. We are able to take pride in our work, while remaining humble and accepting criticism. We express our opinions freely without fear of the judgment of others and always speak up when we see acts of injustice.

Temperate: We balance all aspects of our lives. By devoting personal attention to academics and personal commitments, we maintain moderation. While welcoming relaxation, we exert self-control and strength of will when faced with temptation and challenge.

Fair: We cultivate an environment where all students may act and speak without the fear of prejudice, intolerance, or judgment. We recognize and seek to understand the differences between individuals in the community. While recognizing these differences, we also value the inherent equality among all.

Informed: We rely not only on our own experiences to make decisions, but we also actively seek a more thorough understanding of the world. With our knowledge, we envision a more peaceful and empathetic society.

Honest: We understand the value and necessity of being true to ourselves, as well as others, and we are sincere in words and actions. We take pride in the authenticity of our own work and ideas, and we have the courage and integrity to take responsibility for all of our actions.