For my Argument course, our class was assigned to an interesting new project. We were asked to change one of the amendments in the GCE “code of conduct.” I found this very interesting, because it gives me a chance to put my personality in the school’s foundation. I decided to focus my blog around the amendment against “trespassing.” I put my two cents in by adding the idea that all students will be given a key. I believe this raises the trust factor in all students.
Sean Mallers 1/24/13
GCE is a community, school, and space revolved around its deep care for the students. We are given homework, care, and opportunities based around the way we learn. I feel it important that the school’s campus be open for all students to use as a resource. In my opinion, students should be given a way into school at all times for emergency purposes. The GCE code of conduct states that trespassing is illegal without the “proper authorization.” In order for all students to learn at a “level” and comfortable basis, I believe this is a necessity.
In the form of Induction, I can use many theoretical cases to support my amendment. Suppose I am in some form of danger, and need a place of shelter. I can then use my way into school as a way of safety. Perhaps, I am planning a club outing, and need to use the school as a ground for meeting. More importantly, perhaps a student is not in the right environment at home, and simply needs an area to complete schoolwork. In the case of result, the students needs are fulfilled, and he/she must fill out a sign out sheet explaining as to why they needed to use the building. This develops the rule that all students are to be trusted with the security and dignity of the school’s campus. Thus making students more accountable, independent, and resourceful. A rule like so can be connected not to the Arab Spring, but to the aftermath of the Arab Spring. My reformatting of the “Trespassing” amendment in the GCE code of conduct is solely based on trust. A lot of the aftermath of the “Arab Spring” has to do with trust. Trust in your people, trust in your military, and trust in the direction your country is going. Essentially, North Africa is a door, in which many powerful groups have been given keys. Much like my rendition, you may do what you please with the key, but the people believe you are only opening your door with good intentions. In a more literal sense, after the rise and fall of three powerful dictators, their countries leadership seat is empty. Many have spoken with intention to rule, and many have failed. But, all have been given a key. In my opinion a true democracy is one in which all people truly believe they are equal to one and other. If students were given keys, we would all be on a level of trust and accountability. When I presented my amendment to my peers, their most vital critique was on the bases of the flaws in my idea. Of course, it is important to point out what could go wrong. Perhaps, a student could take advantage of the space, and use it for non school purposes, or, the key could be stolen and abused by another person. This is part of the trust factor I spoke on earlier, I believe that if our student were given the opportunity, we would not disappoint. My amendment can particularly connect to the 4th amendment. The amendments states that the government is not allowed to search any persons without a search warrant. Essentially, we are trusting our people with peace and privacy. Many other countries do not have the same trust factor with their citizens. Of course, this has halted many arrests that should have been pursued, but protected even more people. Perhaps many kids are not ready for such a responsibility. Although, I believe there is a point where trust turns to responsibility. GCE life could change completely with this amendment installed, the students would feel honored, and important as members of the community. This would make our students more respectful and accountable to staff and peers. I believe this rule is what our students need to take the next step towards responsibility.
