Character.org welcomes you to our 2025 National School of Character Digital Yearbook!
Each of these 71 schools and 3 districts has put in place a comprehensive approach to help students understand, care about, and consistently practice the character strengths that will help them flourish in school, in relationships, in the workplace, and as citizens.
The National Schools of Character program has impacted over three million students, staff, parents, and community members. The schools and districts that apply must meet the rigorous standards articulated in Character.org’s 11 Principles Framework for Schools: A Guide to Cultivating a Culture of Character.
I invite you to visit Character.org to learn more about how your school can participate.
On behalf of Lori Soifer, Diana Dodson, Tamra Nast, and the entire Character.org team, thank you for your commitment to character!
Dr. Arthur Schwartz
President, Character.org
About Character.org: Our mission is to cultivate the importance of character throughout society. Founded in 1993, we empower people of all ages to practice and model core values that shape our hearts, minds, and choices. Our vision is a future where people everywhere -- in our classrooms, board rooms, and living rooms -- are more ethical, civic-minded, and caring.
Congratulations Class of 2025
NATIONAL SCHOOLS OF CHARACTER
Video Message Greeting to the ‘Class of 2025’
Jana
Hawkins, Principal, Cambridge Elementary, San Antonio, Texas
West Milford, New Jersey
One of our national evaluators wrote: The staff has worked hard to build on the efforts established several years ago. This school exemplifies what a School of Character should be.” Congratulations to Apshawa Elementary for being recognized as a two-time National School of Character.
Babler Elementary
Wildwood, Missouri
This two-time National School of Character has a rich history of fostering character development that began before the school’s first national recognition over a decade ago. Each school day begins with the Babler Pledge, recited by all students and staff, reinforcing the core values of Respect, Responsibility, Honesty, Kindness, and Creativity. One incredible feature of the school is how students are offered self-assessment opportunities that often help them set their own character goals. Daily class meetings also provide a platform for students to discuss the school’s core values and how they apply to real-life situations.
Bridgeport Elementary School
Bridgeport, New York
“We Know, We Do, We Feel” is the school’s prized motto. The “know” is symbolized by the head which encourages students to think about their choices. The “do” is symbolized by a hand which encourages students to the right thing and “feel” is symbolized by a heart which allows students to reflect on how their actions make them feel. The school’s motto reinforces the school’s core values: responsibility, respect, perseverance, kindness, courage).” Congratulations to Bridgeport Elementary for being recognized as a two-time National School of Character!
Brock’s Gap Intermediate School
Hoover, Alabama
Everyone at this first time National School of Character knows 2RISE, the motto that captures the school’s core values (Respect, Responsibility, Integrity, Self-control and Empathy). During the national review team’s virtual site visit, a parent shared how these core values are helping her at home. She told the evaluation team that “2RISE has impacted my parenting as I am looking a lot closer at the example I am setting for my kids, especially when I see my children understanding and handling everyday situations with integrity and respect.”
Congratulations Brock’s Gap Intermediate!
Central Elementary School-AL
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Students at Central Elementary learn to S.O.A.R toward their successful future (Self-discipline, Open-minded, Accountable, Respect). The school staff take immense pride in their character-building initiative which has positively impacted the entire school community. As a staff member recently shared with our national evaluators, “Our character initiative has greatly impacted me because it has helped me articulate the vision at the foundation for the learning at our school. SOAR applies not just to our students but to every adult in the building.” Congratulations to Central Elementary for being recognized as a first-time National School of Character.
Central Freshman Academy
Phenix City, Alabama
Every student at CFA (9 graders only) learns the school’s motto “With Character in the AIR” (Accountability, Integrity, and Respect). CFA is especially focused on encouraging students to “do the right thing” for intrinsic rather than extrinsic reasons and the staff have created activities and lessons to equip students with the tools to recognize the “internal rewards” of making positive choices. Congratulations to Central Freshman Academy for being recognized as a first-time National School of Character.
Chesterfield
Chesterfield, Missouri
We are one Family. We are Chesterfield.”
Clear Brook High School
Friendswood, Texas
This high school stands as a shining example of excellence, proudly recognized twice as a National School of Character. The phrases “on a quest for the best” and “sparking excellence everywhere” are intentionally featured in campus communications to emphasize the shared commitment to pursuing excellence and fostering character development across the school community. In this photo, the Brook PALs & Friends group hosts their 24th annual Paper Goods Scavenger Hunt in support of Bay Area Turning Point, a shelter for survivors of domestic violence. What a wonderful example of how CBHS gives back to the community!
Colegio Nueva Granada Bogota,
Colombia,
Character has been a central pillar of Colegio Nueva Granada since the school was founded in 1938.
Caring attachments are at the heart of CNG’s House Families which build positive cross-age friendships, empower student voice and choice, and are used to fully integrate character with intention, meaning, and purpose. The “CNG Way” is built on the core values of respect, responsibility, caring and integrity. At CNG, these are not just words on a page, but inform every interaction, every decision, and every aspect of school life. Congratulations to this two-time Colombia School of Character!
DOVE School of Discovery
Tulsa, Oklahoma
The school's focus on character development and STEMoriented academic success is outlined in the Student Success Profile, which serves as the school’s guiding “North Star.” One staff member proudly talked about the “shared leadership” model: “In the halls, from Elementary through Middle School, the students are the ones who put up the Character bulletin boards. They display their creative and artistic abilities, working as a team to make each bulletin board stand out. The staff are dedicated to ensuring that the school’s character initiative is 100% student-centered and student driven.” Congratulations to the DOVE School of Discovery for being named a National School of Character for the second time!
Dove Science Academy Middle School
Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
The “North Star” of Dove Science Academy South MS is expressed in their touchstone: I am a Critical Thinker, I am Self-Reliant and Determined, I am Resilient and Resourceful, I am Committed to Community, I am College-and CareerBound. The teachers and staff have worked hard to integrate service-learning into the school’s curriculum and civic leaders have shared with Dove students that the different events they helped to lead have made a positive impression on the broader community. Congratulations to Dove Science Academy Middle School for being recognized as a first-time National School of Character.
Dove Science Academy Tulsa
Tulsa, Oklahoma
To incorporate character into all aspects of school life, this first time National School of Character has established monthly character themes that emphasize different core values. To reinforce these themes, DSA-Tulsa has developed unique character songs that correspond to each month's focus. These songs are more than just music; they are a way for students to connect emotionally with the character traits. In the words of a staff member: “Dove Science Academy isn’t just a place to work—it’s a community where values guide everything we do.”
Dover Middle School
Dover, New Jersey
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National School of Character for the very first time! This school started their character journey in 2019, and through time, intentionality, and continuous staff development the character initiative has become the cornerstone of DMS. They are indeed becoming TIGERS who ROAR (Trustworthy, Integrity, Giving, Empathy, Respect, Service). We look forward to hearing more ROARS from this middle school!
Eastern Christian School Association
North Haledon, New Jersey
With a strong focus on faith and character development, this school district is being recognized as a three-time National District of Character. Six pillars (Seek Truth, Serve Others, Embrace Community, Exhibit Compassion, Develop Responsibility, Strive for Excellence) are highlighted in daily devotions, chapel services, and across individual and schoolwide service learning projects. One parent shared: “EC’s character initiative is more than just an educational philosophy; it is a way of life that has transformed my children, strengthened my faith, and offered us a community that feels like family.”
Eureka Elementary School
Eureka, Missouri
One national evaluator commented that students at Eureka “consistently demonstrate the school’s core values in meaningful, action-centered ways.” The evaluators were also impressed with the school’s discipline mantra –“Own It, Make It Right, Move On” – and how these words empower students to develop their own moral compass. As a first time National School of Character, we are excited to learn what new strategies and practices Eureka Elementary will be putting in place to strengthen and deepen their already amazing culture of character.
Forest Park Individual Education School
Joliet, Illinois
At this two-time National School of Character, character development is intentional, proactive, and rooted in the school’s 4R's: Respect, Responsibility, Resourcefulness, and Responsiveness. The staff at this magnet school is committed to enhancing the 4R’s by continuously developing their own character skills and setting a positive example for students. One national evaluator shared, “The alignment between what is taught, modeled, and internalized across all stakeholder groups is particularly impressive.”
Congratulations Forest Park!
Fort Settlement Middle School
Sugar Land, Texas
Each year this three-time National School of Character selects a theme to inspire and unite the entire school community. “Lead with Courage…Continue to SOAR” was the school’s theme in 2024-2025. Other themes have included “The Power of One”, “Be YOUnique”, and two themes that sought to connect Fort Settlement students to their community: “CommYOUnity”, and “ContribYOUte.” One national evaluator captured the power of these annual themes in a quote from a parent: “The SOAR initiative not only enriched my children’s character, but it has also reinforced the values we strive to cultivate in our family.”
Congratulations Fort Settlement Middle School!
Frank J. Smith School
East Hanover, New Jersey
This early childhood school recently created F.R.O.G.S. as their new touchstone (Friendship, Respect, Optimism, Grit, Success). A 1 grader told one of our national evaluators that “Optimism is looking on the bright side” and another student shared that “Friendship is being kind to each other.” Our evaluators were also impressed with the school’s bi-monthly, cross-age meetings where staff work to deepen their students’ understanding of the core values through interactive activities and lessons. Congratulations to this two-time National School of Character, a true reflection of the school’s slogan, “Don't Forget, at FJS, YOU MATTER!” st
Harmony School of Excellence-
Sugar Land Elementary School
Sugar Land, Texas
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Harmony School of Exploration-Houston
Houston, Texas
Every morning at this first-time National School of Character students say out loud their school’s ROAR touchstone: "I am Respectful, I take Ownership, I am an Achiever, I am Resilient." Service Learning has become a staff priority, as demonstrated by this photograph depicting the school-wide “Paper Airplane Service Project” in which students from different age groups worked together to learn the social studies standards related to this project. Congratulations to Harmony School of Exploration in Houston. We hope you are “ROARING” with pride!
Harmony School of Innovation-Austin
Austin, Texas
The school’s mascot is Oso, meaning bear in Spanish. The school day starts with an Oso Affirmation, a daily practice where students recite a character-building affirmation during morning announcements that includes the school’s core values of Cooperation, Creativity, Integrity, Kindness and Perseverance. HSI-Austin is especially proud of its efforts to provide leadership opportunities for all 5 grade students, including how the 5th-graders now take charge of the school’s annual service project. Congratulations HSI-Austin for being named a National School of Character for the first time! th
Harmony School of Innovation-El Paso Elementary
El Paso, Texas
The students, staff, and families at this first time National School of Character are TIGER STRONG (Trustworthiness, Integrity, Gratitude, Empathy, Responsibility)! In this photo, one first grade student wrote a note to express his gratitude to the cafeteria staff. The staff were so excited with the student’s random act of kindness that they shared the note with the entire school community. As one national evaluator wrote, “This school is intentional in addressing the social, emotional, and character development of their students. Each month, a different TIGER core value is the schoolwide focus for intentional teaching and learning.”
Congratulations HSI-EP Elementary!
Harmony School of Innovation-
El Paso Middle/High
This school’s mascot is a wolf, and all stakeholders are proud to be part of the “Wolf Pack” where the ALPHA core values (Adaptability, Loyalty, Perseverance, Honor, Accountability) are at the center of their character initiative. An alumnus and current staff member shared with one of our evaluators about how the school's character efforts has deeply impacted her: “Our character initiative has not only influenced my work ethic but has also strengthened my personal commitment to cultivating a nurturing and respectful environment for our students.”
Congratulations HSI-El Paso M/H for being recognized as a first-time National School of Character! El Paso, Texas
Harmony School of Innovation-Laredo
Laredo, Texas
This first-time National School of Character is full of PRIDEPerseverance, Respect, Integrity, Self-Discipline, and Empathy! These core values are at the center of the school’s character initiative. This past year the school created Academies, a house system with each house representing a core value and a renowned scientist, artist, or philosopher.
One parent recently shared this insight with our national evaluators: “It’s reassuring to know that the school is helping shape my child into a kind, thoughtful, and resilient individual, ready to make a positive impact on the world.”
Harmony School of S h
El Paso, Texas
Harmony Science Academy-Carrollton
Carrollton, Texas
This first time National School of Character truly epitomizes “harmony” among students, staff, and parents by living the H-Pack core values of Honorable, Persistent, Adaptable, Courageous, and Kind! These values empower students to overcome academic challenges, excel in sports and activities, and practice kindness. One of the national evaluators shared, “The collegiality and warmth in the room at our virtual site visit seemed to come through the computer screen. We felt authentic relationships, heard genuine laughter, and felt the support that staff and students must feel on any given day.” Congratulations HSA-C Huskies!
Harmony Science Academy-Dallas High
Dallas, Texas
The PRIDE touchstone—Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Determination, and Empathy—are at the heart of everything this school does. The school’s core values guide not only its rigorous STEM curriculum but also shape its extracurricular programs and the meaningful relationships fostered throughout the school community. HSA-Dallas High is proud of its community partnership with Home Depot over the last several years. In this photo, Home Depot employees partnered with the school and built picnic tables and raised gardens for an outdoor classroom. “PRIDE” is everywhere at this first time National School of Character!
Harmony Science Academy-Katy Elementary
Katy, Texas
One staff member proudly shared: “Our commitment to character development is paying off, with students who excel academically and demonstrate strong character. At our school, character is the cornerstone of our school's success.”
The school has worked tirelessly to integrate character into the daily curriculum, including lessons that encourage students to critically evaluate ethical dilemmas and real-world scenarios. The school has also focused on social-emotional learning and supporting the efforts of students to manage their emotions and resolve conflicts effectively. Congratulations to HSA–Katy Elementary for being named a National School of Character for the first time!
Plano , Texas
This first-time National School of Character believes teaching kindness is as crucial as academics. As stated in their application, “Our goal is not only to help students excel in their studies but also to develop into compassionate, intrinsically motivated individuals.” As shown in the photo, 5th-grade students engage in service learning that connects directly to their social studies curriculum. Through their studies of various cultures, they prepare presentations for Passport Night—an event attended by over 600 people—celebrating diversity and fostering cultural appreciation. Congratulations HSA-Plano!
Harmony Science Academy-Waco
Waco, Texas
Character development is a priority at this first-time National School of Character, with all stakeholders working together to model and implement the school’s PRIDE touchstone: Positivity, Respect, Integrity, Dedication, and Excellence. A staff member recently shared with our national evaluators that “Our core values are reflected in our actions and interactions daily. This unity creates a positive, cohesive school culture that benefits the entire community.” The entire staff have worked hard to integrate restorative practices across the school to ensure that students are practicing and reflecting on the importance of empathy and respect.
Hartselle Intermediate School
Hartselle, Alabama
This two-time National School of Character has been intentional about continuing to strengthen its character initiative over the past five years. The school’s Tiger Way pledge has become the language that the staff use when talking to students about their choices and decisions. There are now more opportunities for all students to take on leadership roles for different school efforts such as Tiger Voice, Tiger Buddies, and Kindness Agents. The photo shows a student-led event where 5th and 6th graders, through a friendly competition, collected peanut butter and jelly for students in need.
Huntington Place Elementary
Northport, Alabama
Honesty, kindness, compassion, respect, and responsibility are “The Wildcat Way” at Huntington Place Elementary. A teacher recently shared with one of our national evaluators that “The Wildcat Way is not just something we repeat each morning after announcements. It is a true touchstone and guiding principle for life inside and outside the classroom. I try to apply the Wildcat Way everywhere I go.” Congratulations to this two-time National School of Character!
Imagine Kissimmee Charter Academy
Kissimmee, Florida
The core values of this two-time National School of Character are Respect, Responsibility, Honesty, and Courage. As the school wrote in its application, “These values shape our interactions, guide our decisions, and foster a supportive, positive atmosphere for all students and staff, building a culture that truly values character alongside academic achievement.” The photo captures a special moment from their annual school Character Parade, where younger students dress up as their favorite characters, and older students partner with a class to help lead and support the parade. Congratulations, Imagine Kissimmee Charter Academy!
Imagine South Lake Charter School
Clermont, Florida
At this four-time National School of Character the school pillars (justice-integrity-fun) and core values (respect, integrity, perseverance, kindness) anchor their character initiative. In this photo, student leaders are seen collaborating to plan character efforts to actively promote the school’s core values, encouraging all students to embody these values in their daily interactions and choices. One community member shared: “Imagine South Lake’s impact extends beyond its students, reinforcing its reputation as a school that genuinely cares for its teachers, staff, students, families, and the wider community.”
Glassboro, New Jersey
The P.R.I.D.E. core values—Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Dependability, and Empathy—are truly the heartbeat of this early childhood school's character development efforts, guiding both students and staff in building a strong, supportive community. The application states, “These core values, along with the touchstones of relationships, community, and tradition, really solidified ‘what’ we stand for and ‘where’ we were heading.” This first time National School of Character is truly living out its mission statement, “Empowering students to be unique, exceptional citizens through a culture of character and learning.” Congratulations, J. Harvey Rodgers School!
Juan Pable DuarteJose Julian Marti, School #28
Elizabeth, New Jersey
Over the course of their sustained character journey, this three-time National School of Character continues to strengthen and enhance their commitment to character development. The school recently created a house system where each house has its own crest, mantra, and hand symbol that reflects one of the school’s core values. A staff member recently shared the following reflection with one of our national evaluators: “I am proud of the team I work with and proud of the students who overcome adversity every day to come to school and be their best selves.”
Long Elementary School
St. Louis, Missouri
p g g y, three-time National School of Character!
Louis Pizitz Middle School
Vestavia Hills, Alabama
In the photo, a sixth-grade homeroom class is adopting a staff member without a homeroom into their crew. All students at this first-time National School of Character have embraced the school’s new motto: Character. Excellence. Family. CHART your course! (Courage, Honesty, Acceptance, Respect, Teamwork).
Our national evaluators shared that the “staff pride themselves on being committed to the same goal: to offer a balanced middle school experience for every learner while embracing diverse people and perspectives. They realize that character work is indeed the work of culture and relationships.” .
Macopin Middle School
West Milford, New Jersey
The photo shows students participating in “Pass the Plate”, a bi-monthly character-building activity where students share positive comments about each other. Students then put their “plates” on display outside their lockers as a positive and uplifting reminder. The school’s touchstone provides the common language for the entire school community: Be Here, Be Safe, Be Respectful, Let Go, Move On, Set Goals, Be Honest. Congratulations to Macopin Middle School for being recognized for the third time as a National School of Character!
Marcus W. Newcomb Middle School
Pemberton, New Jersey
This middle school has built a robust character foundation through its six core values: Grit, Zest, Curiosity, Empathy, SelfControl, and Optimism. Because students only attend Marcus W. Newcomb for 6th grade, building connections is crucial from the start. One staff member shared with an evaluator, “We wanted every child to be seen—thus, Connection Cards were created.” Throughout the year, teachers use index cards to track student connections, ensuring every student feels supported and has a sense of belonging throughout the year.
Congratulations Marcus W. Newcomb for being named a two-time National School of Character!
Memorial Elementary School
Old Bridge, New Jersey
Husky, the school's mascot, represents “good character” to all stakeholders at this two-time National School of Character. The school’s motto, "Work Hard, Be Kind, Go Huskies," is recited each morning to foster positive energy and to encourage students to consistently make ethical choices. In a touching testament to the school, New Jersey State Senator Owen Henry has written that “the respectful atmosphere and the impressive students at Memorial make our town, our state, and, at the end of the day, our country a better place!”
Nike Elementary School
Catawissa, Missouri
Receiving the National School of Character designation for the first time, this school proudly upholds collaboration, critical thinking, respect, and perseverance. This photo shares a moment during School Family time where the touchstone is practiced and lived out. Students of all grade levels meet in one classroom and participate in “getting to know you” activities. Throughout the year, students see each other and make connections with others, not just their classmates. Congratulations Nike Elementary!
North Shelby School
Shelby, North Carolina
its surrounding community.
Northridge Middle School
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
This school's touchstone Respect, Support, Dedication, Community, Commitment, and Excellence—drives their character initiative. This photo captures Best Buddies in action, a beautiful reminder of the power of friendship, inclusion, connection, and joy. As students share laughter and smiles over a game of UNO, they are also learning the importance of embracing diversity and celebrating one another. Moments like these truly reflect the heart of this school community. Congratulations, Northridge Middle School, a first time National School of Character!
Oak Brook Elementary School
Ballwin, Missouri
At the heart of this three-time National School of Character are the core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, selfcontrol, kindness, and curiosity. One of the most treasured times in the school schedule is the monthly “Family Time” gathering, which includes all staff members and students across grade levels. During these multi-age meetings, service learning is a focus. Each “family” does research on the needs of the community and how they can serve or advocate, with the older students of the group serving in a leadership role. Congratulations Oak Brook!
Oakville High School
St. Louis, Missouri
At the center of this high school’s character initiative is their touchstone, the Tiger Stripes of Character: Motivation, Responsibility, Integrity, Respect, Leadership. These Stripes are embodied by the school motto, “Our HouSe,” symbolic of OHS. One national evaluator shared, “Oakville High School is a place where character and core values are important. This message is effectively relayed from the school’s principal through the teaching and support staff to the students and community.” Congratulations Oakville on becoming a three-time National School of Character!
Old Bridge High School
Old Bridge, New Jersey
This three-time National School of Character continues to shine. The school’s touchstone “Do the R.I.G.H.T. Thing” (Responsibility, Inclusivity, Generosity, Helpfulness, Trustworthiness) remains at the center of their intentional character initiative. The school has embraced an inspiring goal: “To equip each student with not only academic knowledge but with a strong moral compass and the confidence to navigate life’s challenges with compassion and integrity.”
Congratulations to the Knights at Old Bridge High School!
Old Bridge Township Public Schools
Old Bridge, New Jersey
Each of the 15 schools that comprise this three-time National District of Character continue to strengthen their character journey through intentional reflection, shared accountability and the motivation to cultivate a character-centered school culture. A twelfth grader shared with one of our national evaluators that “doing the right thing is more than a motto; it’s a guiding principle that shapes how students engage with each other, our community, and the world. It means stepping up to support others and striving to make a positive impact within the school, whether through service or simple acts of compassion.”
Pemberton
T hi Hi h S h l
Pemberton, New Jersey
Pen Argyl High School
Pen Argyl, Pennsylvania
This first-time National School of Character is a true reflection of its motto: “Guided and United in Character.” The school’s character journey began almost a decade ago when a committee of students and teachers developed the pillars that still form the “Code of the Green Knight.” Displayed on a knight’s shield, the code is Protect Integrity, Accept Challenges, Honor Diversity, Salute Kindness. This unique touchstone has truly become the lifeblood of the school. One national reviewer noted “students really appreciate that all the character efforts at PAHS are student led.” Congratulations Green Knights!
Plainedge High School
Massapequa, New York
This high school is proud to be a first-time National School of Character. The core values of Loyalty, Empathy, Accountability, and Determination (LEAD)– guide the school’s character initiative. This photo shares a moment where students, staff, and the community all worked together to host a Special Olympics across Long Island. One staff member stated that since the character initiative has been embraced by Plainedge HS that “students are more engaged and supportive of each other, actively practicing empathy and understanding. This has led to a more inclusive environment where everyone feels valued.”
Reed Elementary School
St. Louis, Missouri
Panther PRIDE serves as the foundation for Reed Elementary’s character initiative (Patience, Responsibility, Integrity, Determination, Equity). Character extends beyond the school day too! The after-school club
“Difference Makers” offers opportunities for students to make a positive impact in their community and how even the smallest acts of kindness can make a BIG impact on the world! Congratulations to this two-time National School of Character!
Riverbend Middle School
Pacific, Missouri
At the center of Riverbend’s character initiative are the core values of Respect, Responsibility, and Resilience. A key component of the school’s character efforts is Tribe Time, described in their application as “probably the most important piece responsible for the success we’ve seen with our character initiative.” Students meet twice a week with the same teacher for the entire year, offering a unique opportunity for teachers to cultivate positive, caring, and supportive relationships with their students while emphasizing character development. Congratulations Riverbend Middle School for being named a National School of Character for the first time!
Ross Elementary School
St. Louis, Missouri
This three-time National School of Character starts each week with a character-centered “Monday Rise and Shine” assembly that includes the Ross School Pledge, a celebration of students and staff, and a special focus on one of the school’s core values (Respect, Responsibility, Kindness, Perseverance). A parent shared with one of our national evaluators: “While trying to pull any explanation out of my 3rd grade son is a challenge, I can always count on him being excited to talk about the Monday morning assembly. Those moments of unity really stick with him. Getting him out the door on Monday isn't quite as difficult as it once was.”
Roxbury Public Schools
Roxbury, New Jersey
Character exemplifies how school and district leaders can work together to empower all staff, parents, and students to embrace the importance of character as both an individual and district-wide commitment.
Sayen Elementary School
Hamilton, New Jersey
The mission of this first-time National School of Character is to “develop respectful, kind, and honest problem solvers” dedicated to nurturing individuals ready to face future challenges. The staff and the PTA have worked hard to integrate SEL and character development into all aspects of the school culture to ensure that Sayen is a caring community where every student feels they belong.
Congratulations Sayen Elementary!
School of Science and Technology Alamo
San Antonio, Texas
SST’s CIRCLE core values (Caring, Integrity, Responsibility, Critical Thinking, Loyalty, Empathy) are at the heart of their character initiative. One staff member shared in their application, “When I asked my students what character means to them, they stated being there for one another, helping each other, and being a good leader so others will follow.” In this photo, students are practicing their leadership skills by presenting information about their culture to other students. Congratulations SST Alamo for being named a National School of Character for the second time!
School of Science and Technology Champions
Houston, Texas
At this public charter school students in grades PreK-12 practice and live the CIRCLE touchstone of Caring, Integrity, Responsibility, Citizenship, Leadership, and Empathy. The photo above was taken after conducting a book drive, where many parents and community members donated books to help in the expansion of the library. One staff member shared with one of our evaluators, “Our character initiative has deepened my sense of purpose as a staff member, inspiring me to model our core values every day.”
Congratulations SST Champions for being named a firsttime National School of Character!
School of Science and Technology The Woodlands
Tomball, Texas
What began as a vision to integrate character into everyday school life has grown into a vibrant H.E.A.R.T.S. changing journey (Humility, Empathy, Accountability, Respectfulness, Trustworthiness, Self Control). A 7th student explained it perfectly to our national evaluators: “The best part is that we don't just talk about these values; we live them out in our daily actions. Whether we show empathy by supporting a friend having a tough day, practice humility when we win or lose, or hold ourselves accountable for our schoolwork and behavior, these values guide everything we do.” Congratulations to SST-The Woodlands for being recognized as a two-time National School of Character.
Selvidge Middle School
Ballwin, Missouri
The heartbeat of this three-time National School of Character is SMS ROCKS (Responsibility, Open-mindedness, Collaboration, Kindness, and Self-control). Teachers have shared with our national evaluators that their “Empathy Interviews” have helped to keep all aspects of the school’s character initiative aligned. In the words of one parent: “It’s an odd thing to say, but there are times when I feel like children make better choices than adults these days. If that’s not my imagination, then I do think that strengthens the argument that not only is our school character initiative working but is needed in our communities now more than ever.”
Southside Elementary School
Angleton, Texas
Th ke inte the sch The ref eir da tor
commented: By nurturing strong values and emphasizing character-building, students will leave Southside not only with knowledge but also with the moral foundation to contribute positively to society. The school’s dedication to developing good people will have a ripple effect for years to come.”
Southwood Elementary School
Old Bridge, New Jersey
Everyone is involved in the character effort at this three-time National School of Character, including fifth graders who take on leadership roles as part of being involved in the school’s Character in Action club. One parent shared with our national evaluator her perspective on Southwood’s commitment to character development: “It has been so refreshing, especially in this day and age, to have our son in a school where character is emphasized daily and where people at the school walk the talk.”
Valleyview Middle School
Denville, New Jersey
This first-time National School of Character helps students REACH their potential (Respect, Empathy, Achieve, Courage, Honor). Valleyview is known for Advisory, a dedicated time for students to develop positive relationships and reflect on how they are striving to live the Valleyview Values. Advisory is also the time when students plan and implement different service projects. This year, the school’s sustainable farming project has included students working with residents from the nearby Oaks Senior Living Community on a recycling initiative. This robust partnership is intergenerational learning at its best!
Vestavia Hills Elementary at Cahaba Heights
Vestavia Hills, Alabama
If a p ss! In the fi dents in g with
‘B he student in this photo shared how she can show integrity by “loving others!” Staff and students also appreciate the daily “Heights Huddles” meetings where lessons and conversations on the school’s core values have created a common understanding of how everyone should interact and communicate with each other. Congratulations to Vestavia Hills Elementary at Cahaba Heights for being recognized as a two-time National School of Character.
Vestavia Hills Elementary Dolly Ridge
Vestavia Hills, Alabama
In this photo, kindergarten students (seedlings) are welcomed into their K-5 multi-age ‘Grow Groups’, symbolizing the start of their character growth journey and becoming a contributing member of the Dolly Ridge community. A parent shared with one of our national evaluators that the school “emphasizes respect, responsibility and kindness and these strong traits carry over into our children's daily lives.” Congratulations to Vestavia Hills Elementary Dolly Ridge for being recognized as a first-time National School of Character!
Walter M. Schirra Elementary School
Old Bridge, New Jersey
Walter M. Schirra School, a three-time National School of Character, proudly upholds its Play Unified program. This practice brings together students with and without disabilities to participate in unified sports and activities.
In this photo, Play Unified members and staff are contributing to the community through an interactive tent at a local event. Congratulations to Walter M. Schirra School for consistently demonstrating excellence in fostering a community built on strong character values.
Washington Middle School
Washington, Missouri
(Respect, Ownership, Commitment, Kindness). The school counselor shared with our evaluation team that the staff “works hard to ensure everyone feels welcomed, respected, and heard.” Service Learning projects are embedded into the curriculum...whether it's in the school vegetable/herb garden, chicken coop, or butterfly garden.
Congratulations to Washington Middle School for being recognized as a first-time National School of Character!
Wass Elementary School
Troy, Michigan
This two-time National School of Character integrates the core values of Responsibility, Respect, Integrity, Perseverance, and Empathy into all aspects of their school culture. The “Wass Wolf Way” is the common language used at the school and students are proud to be part of a multi-age Wolf Pack group. The Wass Wolves have become a model for shared leadership and a beacon for character for many schools in Southeast Michigan!
West Maple Elementary
Bloomfield
Township, Michigan
At the heart of this three-time National School of Character are the core values of Kindness, Responsibility, Integrity, and Empathy. Students take on leadership roles across the school, from creating a Zen Garden to participating in the school’s Empathy Project. Families are also a key stakeholder in the school’s comprehensive character initiative, including working with their children to create a family Core Values poster that enables students to share and learn about each other’s family. Keep up this inspiring work, West Maple Elementary!
William A. Miller Elementary School
Old Bridge, New Jersey
This three-time National School of Character offers readers the chance to read with therapy dog “Shiloh” (seen in this photo) to create a supportive environment where students boost self-confidence and comfort with reading. A parent recently shared with our national evaluators that “Our kids are learning at a young age to respect the differences of others and to lead by example.” In their report, the evaluators noted: “The administration, teachers, and staff are all extremely passionate about education and genuinely have the desire to help their students grow both in their academics and character development.”
William F. Halloran School 22
Elizabeth, New Jersey
This two-time National School of Character is one of the two Gifted and Talented schools in the Elizabeth Public School District. At the core of the school’s character initiative is the Husky touchstone, PAWS, which stands for Positive, Accountable, Wise Scholars. The touchstone is deeply ingrained in the school's culture, as students often describe the school as a second home where teachers strive to bring out the best in everyone. William F. Halloran is truly a unique school where all students are encouraged to be the best they can be!
Woodbury Middle School
Woodbury, Minnesota
Guided by the pillars of Respect, Responsibility, Participation, and Perseverance, the Wildcat Way shapes character development at this first-time National School of Character. This school is proud of its advisory time where each school day is dedicated to a different aspect of character development. For example, on “Mindful Mondays,” students and staff gather in a community meeting circle. These sessions include time for sharing, reflection, and connecting to the monthly character theme. One parent shared, “I have seen my daughter considering others’ feelings more thoughtfully and reflecting on how her words and actions might impact them.” Way to go Wildcats!
Woodridge Elementary School
San Antonio, Texas
Everyone at this two-time National School of Character is encouraged to BE THE WE (Woodridge Elementary). The school created the touchstone SPARKS to guide their campus-wide character initiative (Self-control, Perseverance, Acceptance, Respect, Kindness, Service).
One parent recently shared that “As a teacher’s daughter, I know the role that educators can have in shaping our children, but I underestimated how the character initiative at Woodridge has helped my family find our community.”
Zitzman Elementary School
Pacific, Missouri
This first time National School of Character has embraced the motto, “Root and Rise” to reflect the challenges that the school faced when a nearby school closed, and the students and staff suddenly became new members of the Zitzman school community. The touchstone of responsibility, respectfulness, collaboration, and citizenship are woven into all aspects of the school culture, including the academic curriculum. During Tribe Time, an opportunity for students across grade levels to make connections, a hallway “tree” was created that includes each student’s name and personal commitment to a service project.