The very most fundamental standard of conduct

If you were looking for a number one rule, mustn't it be

1. You have to obey the rules.

We tell students, they must obey the rules.*

We go on to explain to them;

if they would be people of character and courage and honor,
when they break a rule,
they are expected to be honest about it.

The standard we hold up for them is;
hold yourself honestly accountable for the choices you make.

How does one show students what that looks like, except by
showing students what that looks like?

Show them what honest accountability to meaningful standards
of conduct and competence looks like.

Or,
stop telling students that their good character depends upon it.


*There are ethical exceptions such as civil disobedience.