/* Round images */ .circular img { border-radius: 50%; }

Certification Process

For schools in the United States, there are two levels of certification: State and National. Both reviews take place annually.

All National Schools and School Districts of Character are recognized and celebrated at Character.org’s annual Forum. One of the largest character development conferences in the world, the Forum brings together teachers, school leaders and experts in the field eager to share and learn the latest approaches, practices and research in character development. See our Guide To Applying for more information about the certification process.

State Review

The state review takes place in December and January. State review teams evaluate applications based on the standards found in the 11 Principles Framework. Schools receive a score-sheet with comments citing strengths, areas of growth, and potential Promising Practices. Character.org announces the schools and districts that have met the criteria for state certification at the end of January. State certification is valid for five years.

National Review

The national review, based on the information highlighted in the state application, takes place in February, March, and April. Character.org assigns a national evaluator to visit each school or district. The type of site visit (virtual) will be determined by current conditions and other factors.

All national applicants receive a score-sheet and a detailed report citing strengths and areas of growth. Character.org announces the schools and districts that have met the criteria for national certification in May.

International Review

Schools outside the United States submit their application in English and follow the same review process but use the name of the city where the school is located for certification if they meet the criteria of the first level of review, and the name of their country if they meet the criteria of the second level review. Schools invited to participate in the second level of review will receive a virtual or in-person site visit. The type of site visit will be determined by current conditions and other factors.

Recertification

National Schools and Districts of Character applying for recertification submit a complete application in the year they are to be recertified. (Note: Please apply for recertification in the beginning of the 5th year of your National designation to prevent a lapse in status. For example: 2022 NSOCs would apply in the fall of 2026 for certification in 2027.) They are recertified first at the State level and then at the National level.