Total Character Workout
Our CE PLC promoted the idea "Good character makes you strong." Student Superheroes led seven workouts using seven core CORRECT values (Citizenship, Optimism, Responsibility, Respect, Empathy, Citizenship, Trustworthiness). Patterned on the Drop Everything And Read model, Superheroes used the PA system to interrupt classes (with notice to teachers) and lead students in exercises -- jumping jacks for Courage, etc. Each "workout" included a script reinforcing the core value. Teachers wore "workout" clothes and were given CE lesson plans on the day's core value to reinforce the workout. Superhero music or other songs (Aretha Franklin's Respect or other 1980s workout music) are played in background to get kids moving. Via a Character Muscle Poster contest, students showed how core values made them strong. Culminating assembly brought all students/staff together for whole workout routine, replete with cheerleaders, pom poms, and bull horns. Kid Courageous and Cousin Correct donned costumes and masks as emcees while fifth graders led exercises from the front of the gym, held up CORRECT letters, and adapted an Itsy Bitsy Spider skit to show core values of optimism and courage. Poster winners were also called to the front by principal.