Benefits
- Schools gain insights into what high-quality character education looks like in schools, helping them to improve and strengthen their own programs.
- Schools have the opportunity to reflect on their practices and programs and assess their level of implementation against a recognized standard of excellence.
- Schools receive guidance, feedback, and recognition at no cost—other than their time.
- All schools and districts that apply and are determined to have met a standard of excellence are recognized as schools of character and helped to create a plan for outreach to others.
Recognition
State Schools of Character: SSOC hold their designation for 3 years. Being named an SSOC qualifies an applicant to be considered for at the national level for NSOC status. State sponsors offer technical assistance or guide applicants to helpful resources so that SSOC winners can reach the goal of becoming a National School or District of Character. State sponsors also recognize SSOC at state celebrations in their honor. CEP recognizes SSOC winners in its annual NSOC publication. CEP and state sponsors also honor SSOC on their websites.
National Schools of Character: NSOC hold their designation for 5 years. CEP showcases the NSOC in an annual publication and on its website. NSOC receive press coverage and have the right to use the NSOC name and logo. CEP honors the NSOC at its annual National Forum on Character Education and assists them with their outreach efforts.
Character Education Helps Students Change for the Better
Character education has helped us move beyond compliance and adults only using language to students embracing character qualities and intrinsic motivation.
Other Testimonials
Anytime a school can get feedback for improvement, it is beneficial.
–Tammy Durham, Gettys Middle School
The application process is a very enlightening process….[A]t the end of the process everyone involved feels great about their participation and accomplishments.
–survey response from a National School of Character applicant
Winning the NSOC award is very prestigious, but it isn’t about getting an award. It is about doing the work that is important. The award just affirms that the work you are doing as a school community is representative of the 11 Principles.
–Connie Browning, Principal, Uthoff Valley E.S.
I would suggest going through the process. The feedback, win or lose, is an invaluable tool in assessing and improving your character education program.
–Aaron Wilken, Principal, Fox M.S.
