We have been engaged in character education (CE) since 1986. In the last five years, through preparation of our State School of Character / National School of Character application, our CE initiative has flourished to encompass the support of students, staff, families, and community. A proactive administration has enabled staff to attend professional development and in-service opportunities. Staff has come to embrace the program through attendance at national conferences. Parents have come on board through efforts by H.S.A. and intentional inclusion of CE at Parent Information Night with discussions on Community of Caring and CE at the school and the partnership involved to form a community of caring.

This year, CE has filtered down to the volunteer committee in charge of our premier fundraiser. They have designed an art deco version of our Character Tree, included virtues incorporated into our past curriculum, and adopted the theme, “Growing Together.” The student-led Community of Caring Club, in its first year, is instrumental in infusing the school environment with character education and promoting positive school climate. Our enrollment and retention numbers show evidence of our CE success. We have gone from a low of 248 students to a current enrollment of 275 students in just two years. Retention is at 85.44%, an all time high, from 70% just four years ago. Character Education is not only visible through symbols, actions, and documented figures; it embodies the spirit of the entire community!

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