Something different is happening at Hinsdale Central High School, located in picturesque Hinsdale, an affluent suburb some 20 miles west of Chicago. On the outside, the streamlined building with its spacious fields and manicured grounds could easily be the setting for a typical teen movie. But a visitor soon senses that a revolutionary movement is afloat here. The jocks and the brains are united, freshmen feel as valued as seniors, and “mean girls” have given way to meaningful-service gals. What is that revolutionary movement that threatens to wipe out the usual high school hierarchies? It is called character education.
Read more about Hinsdale in the 2008 NSOC book: “Being Cool by Showing Character”
Signature Practices
Lesson Plan: Conflict Resolution Skills Training
The students will understand the nature of conflict as they gain the ability to analyze both negative and positive responses to conflict.
Sample Practice: Character Continuum
High school students reflect on their school's core values as they progress through high school.
Contact Information
Pam J. BylsmaAssistant Principal
55th and Grant Streets Hinsdale, Illinois
Phone: 630-570-8215
Email: pbylsma@hinsdale86.org
Website: www.central.hinsdale86.org