Character education initiatives should be the foundation of everything in your school. Involve students, teachers, staff members, parents, and the community in building this foundation. – Jill Ramsey, Principal

Chesterfield Elementary School in Chesterfield, Missouri, is one of 19 elementary schools in the Rockwood School District (a 2006 NSOC)—a district that is highly respected for its accomplishments in character education. Chesterfield has not abandoned the pursuit of knowledge or exchanged it for a watered-down substitute that has little more to offer than sheer sensory delights. On the contrary, students are approaching

their studies with renewed vigor and understanding, and they consistently perform well on standardized tests. The difference is that they are now taking charge of their learning. An integral part of Chesterfield’s approach to character education is the challenge of granting students a voice in what they learn and how they learn. Students clearly have a “voice” at Chesterfield. From deciding class norms and providing curriculum input
to carrying out service-learning projects, students are made to feel an important part, not only of the character initiative but also of their own learning.

Read more about Chesterfield in the 2008 NSOC book: “Inspiring a Love of Learning”

SIGNATURE PRACTICES

Featured Lesson Plan: Who Wants to be President?
In this lesson, elementary students use their knowledge of democratic principles to create a fictional presidential candidate, run a campaign for election, participate in a political convention and presidential debate, and vote for president.

Sample Practice: Homeside Activity: Shining Star
Students work with their families to decorate a paper star that represents the uniqueness of their families. Completed stars are hung in the school hallways.

Promising Practice: Character Counts…Kids Teaching Character
Students create an annual video showing character traits in action.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Jill Ramsey, Principal
Chesterfield Elementary School
17700 Wild Horse Creek Road
Chesterfield, MO 63005
Telephone: (636) 537-4342
E-mail: ramseyjill@rockwood.k12.mo.us
Web site: www.rockwood.k12.mo.us/chesterfield