Grades 6–8
Fair Lawn, New Jersey
Public/Suburban
Enrollment 458
Fair Lawn Public Schools
2007 National School of Character

Believe in the process, and trust the people you are working with to carry the ball.
~ John Immerman, Principal

Thirty miles from New York City, Memorial is a middle school acclaimed for its character education program where students learn compassion and acceptance of others. In the process, they learn to feel good about themselves. According to one student, “No matter how different you are, there is always a place for you here.” Two classes of cognitively impaired students are fully included in the life of the school. “It has been a real benefit to everyone,” states Superintendent Bruce Watson. Memorial students are provided with numerous opportunities to serve their school and community. They are reminded each day of their potential to have a positive impact on others. As a result, Memorial students frequently initiate their own service projects. In return, the community reinforces the school’s efforts. In fact, this past year the mayor presented the school with a proclamation of support for its character education program.

Read more about Memorial in the 2007 NSOC book:  Celebrating Character Every Day

SIGNATURE PRACTICES

Featured Lesson Plan: Circles of Strength: What do you stand for?
Middle school students reflect on how they are members of various communities.

Featured Sample Practice:  Circles of Strength
Students reflect on their character as they create a school mural (handout).

2007 Promising Practice: Common Ground
Common experiences are celebrated as new students are welcomed.

2007 Promising Practice: Decades of Discovery: Our Grandparents Remember
One decade is selected for a year-long investigation through interdisciplinary and intergenerational activities.

2006 Promising Practice: Mirror Project
Over the course of the year, students develop personal portfolios that document their academic, emotional, and social growth.

2006 Promising Practice: Walk in My Shoes
Using a hands-on, cooperative approach, this program offers students an opportunity to learn about the daily challenges faced by those with disabilities.

More Practices:

Alphabet Action!
Students learn more about their peers using this fun activity (handout).

Coach Carter: What is your deepest fear?
Students reflect upon their fears using a quote from the film Coach Carter (handout).

Fun Facts from our Friends
Students learn more about their classmates through this scavenger hunt activity (handout).

CONTACT INFORMATION

Laurianne Brunetti
Character Education Coordinator
Memorial Middle School
12-00 First Street
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
Telephone: (201) 401-2351
E-mail: lbrunetti@fairlawnschools.org
Web site: www.fairlawnmemorial.org