This year, Maggie Walker Governor’s School introduced the Civility Statement, a major step forward in shaping the school’s culture. The civility statement builds upon existing systems of integrity and community like the honor code and the four pillars of the Walker Way. This article will critically examine what civility means in the context of Maggie Walker, why the Civility Statement was specifically created, and future visions for the Civility Statement. 

Dr. Williams, Maggie Walker’s assistant director, drafted the Civility Statement with input from the administrative team. Dr. Lowerre introduced it to the school community in a Sunday update, and it is now displayed throughout the school: in the freshman commons, on a bulletin board in the high 200 hallway, near the senior commons, and in room 153.

Dr. Williams described civility as “respect for yourself and respect for others” and emphasized that it ties closely to kindness, courtesy, and active listening. For Dr. Williams, civility means fostering an environment where “even if your ideas are in opposition, you respect each other’s opinions and original thinking.” This approach is designed to prepare students for academic success and develop students to become compassionate global citizens.

The Civility Statement connects deeply to the school’s Walker Way pillars of courage, compassion, community, and collaboration. Dr. Williams suggested adding civility as a fifth pillar, reflecting its importance in shaping the school’s culture. She explained that while the statement complements the honor code, it extends beyond issues like cheating or plagiarism. “It’s about how you conduct yourself, respect the rules, respect authority, and respect your peers,” she explained. In short, “the school’s honor code and civility statement converge on one word: integrity.” While the honor code addresses academic integrity, the civility statement aims to address the broader social and interpersonal integrity that binds the school together.

The Civility Statement’s impact stretches beyond classroom walls. Dr. Williams shared how Civility Day introduced students to professionals from diverse fields, including law enforcement, art, medicine, and religion, who shared how civility shapes their work. “We wanted to highlight civility in action,” she said, noting the value of collaboration and understanding in every field.

Looking ahead, Dr. Williams and her colleagues envision projects that deepen civility’s role at Maggie Walker. Ideas include planting a tree or garden to symbolize growth and unity or introducing a story exchange activity where students share personal stories and present them from another’s perspective. Dr. Williams explained, “It underscores our humanity and wipes away our differences.” These initiatives aim to make civility a living practice, encouraging students to engage deeply with one another and create meaningful connections.

Dr. Williams views the Civility Statement as more than a policy—it is a promise. “It’s not just about surviving high school; it’s about learning how to thrive in the real world,” she said. By fostering an environment rooted in respect and empathy, the Civility Statement helps students grow into the kind of people who can lead with understanding, solve problems collaboratively, and create communities where everyone belongs. “I want everyone to know what civility means here, what it looks like here in this building and beyond,” she said. 

As we look to the future, we hope that our efforts for civility contribute to the school’s mission of holistically developing each student to prepare them to engage with and lead the world with integrity, respect, and civility. By fostering these values, we aim to create a lasting legacy where students graduate from Maggie Walker not only with academic achievements but also with the character and compassion to make a meaningful impact on the world around them.