Character Education
Character. It’s been one of our three core values since our founding in 1889, and it is still a key part of our mission: to ignite and nurture student curiosity, intellect, and character.
Respect, Compassion, Accountability, and Resilience
The BGA Way, our character education program, and its pillars of respect, compassion, accountability, and resilience are taught and reinforced school-wide, in and out of class. From classroom curriculum and parent programming to athletics, clubs, and leadership, the BGA Way is woven through all aspects of the BGA experience to ensure social emotional learning.
Lower School
In the Lower School, we establish the foundation of character by teaching and practicing the BGA Way by identifying, illustrating, recognizing, and practicing the traits.
Middle School
Middle School builds upon the foundation of the BGA Way through a deeper understanding and application of the concepts.
Upper School
Upper School students expand and exemplify the traits in their daily life through mentoring opportunities and leadership of self and others.
Honor Code
A Treasured Tradition
In addition to the BGA Way, students are expected to abide by our Honor Code. Established in 1889, the Honor Code is one of Battle Ground Academy’s most treasured traditions and is predicated on the assumption that students and faculty are honorable and may be trusted. Each member of the BGA family must accept their personal responsibility to this Honor Code.
I will tell the truth and not deceive others. I will not lie.
I will ensure that the work I submit is my own, and I will neither give nor receive unauthorized assistance in my academic work.
I will not cheat.
I will respect the property of others by not taking or borrowing without permission. I will not steal.
I will do all in my power to enhance the spirit of trust embodied in this Honor Code. I will not support dishonorable behavior.
"I Pledge"
Students sign an honor statement at the beginning of each academic year, and Middle and Upper School students pledge all quizzes, tests, and exams with “I pledge my word of honor that I have neither given nor received help on this work.” or a simple "I pledge."