By Lara Maupin, NSOC Coordinator
CEP’s Schools of Character program is a free school improvement process offers the opportunity for self-assessment, expert feedback, and possible recognition to schools and districts engaged in character education. Applicants repeatedly tell us about the benefits of the process. “I would suggest going through the process. The feedback, win or lose, is an invaluable tool in assessing and improving your character education program,” said Aaron Wilken, Principal of Fox Middle School, a 2011 NSOC. Any U.S. school serving students in Kindergarten through 12th grade may apply, regardless of whether or not you are located in a participating state. If you do not have a State Sponsor, your application will be reviewed by CEP. Applicants located in participating states are eligible for both state and national recognition.
While considered a prestigious awards program, CEP’s Schools of Character program is not actually competitive. All applications are judged against a standard – CEP’s 11 Principles – and all those that demonstrate excellence are named State and/or National Schools of Character. Applications must be completed and be submitted online at by December 3, 2012 in order to be reviewed and considered for possible recognition in 2013. CEP and our State Sponsors provide a wide variety of resources for applicants.
