To the editor:

Why not an “honorable roll” instead of an honor roll?

I am the father of three Bainbridge High graduates. All three were on the honor roll throughout their time in school and I am happy about that. And, yes, I was on lots of honor rolls, too. But we need as a community to re-think what we are holding as the source of honorability.

But by singling only academic achievement as the measure of “honor,” we implicitly discount the many students who exhibit truly honorable behavior as successful human beings.

Many in our school system have overcome great adversity, rendered selfless service to others, mastered a non-academic trade or skill, or shown entrepreneurship and creativity. Some may also be on the traditional honor roll, but many are not.

Developmental psychologists recognize at least nine forms of human intelligence. Only three or so of those seem to be the major drivers of academic success. Recognizing academic performance has an important place. But just not the exclusive starring role on the stage of human intelligence and value.

We can choose to honor all students.

DAVID HAGER

Bainbridge Island