Schools of Character

migrate from https://www.character.org/schools-of-character/

ANNOUNCING 2020 STATE SCHOOLS AND DISTRICTS OF CHARACTER

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Character.org has been certifying schools for 20+ years based on their implementation of The 11 Principles of Effective Character. In that time, more than 800 National Schools of Character, State Schools of Character, Districts of Character, Mexico Schools of Character and China Schools of Character have been certified. More than 3 million educators, students, parents and other community members have improved their lives and the lives of those around them by fostering character development through Character.org's Schools of Character and resources.

Why Apply?

A School of Character

In Schools of Character, adults embrace their critical role as models. Teachers work together as professionals — along with parents and community members as partners — to positively shape the social, emotional, and character development of the young people entrusted to them each day. Students in these schools feel safe, respected, and connected to those around them, allowing them to thrive academically and socially and be motivated to give back to their communities.

Happy Teachers

In a State School of Character, the teacher turnover rate is 4%, while the national average is 16%.

Graduates

The dropout rate for a State School of Character is 3%, roughly half the national average.

Safe Students

88% of students in a School of Character feel safe in school, compared to the national average of 59%.

Culture Shift

Schools that commit to the Schools of Character process are never the same — they improve in every way. For certified Schools of Character, bullying declines, suspensions drop, grades improve, and the school becomes a place everyone where wants to be.

Community

A School of Character designation has an impact on the entire community. Parents see the difference in their children and often become more involved in the success of their school.

Stakeholders Believe In It

Once educators and administrators see the outcomes of the Schools of Character process, they become fervent supporters and advocate of the program. Here are a few principals and superintendents who have been through and believe in the Schools of Character process.

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Assess Yourself

I would suggest going through the process. The feedback is an invaluable tool in assessing and improving your character education program.

Aaron Wilken
Fox Middle School

Application Process

Resources & Guides

The Schools of Character application process is not an easy task. It requires hours of reflection, implementation, and most importantly, commitment. However, the end result is always worth the effort. To make the process simpler, we have compiled a list of must-read resources as you complete your application.