Two Cherry Hill schools designated 2016 National Schools of Character
The Cherry Hill Public Schools’ Clara Barton Elementary School and John A. Carusi Middle School both have been designated 2016 National Schools of Character by Character.org, a non-profit organization that supports the advancement of character development in schools, communities and workplaces across the United States and globally. Only 67 schools and four districts from 15 states have been named National Schools and Districts of Character for 2016.
Each year, Character.org (formerly The Character Education Partnership) and its state affiliates select schools and districts that demonstrate a dedicated focus on character development programs that show positive impact on academic achievement, student
behavior and school climate. Schools and districts selected in January as State Schools of Character along with those schools who reapplied in their three year designation of State School of Character were forwarded to Character.org for consideration for national recognition as National Schools of Character.
Through an in-depth and rigorous evaluation process, these schools were found to be exemplary models of character development. Of the schools named today, one district and 14 schools are former National Schools of Character reapplying for the national designation. Criteria for selection are based on Character.org’s 11 Principles of Effective Character Education, a guide to providing students with opportunities for moral action, fostering shared leadership and engaging families and communities as partners in the character-building effort.
Character.org will honor the designated schools and districts at its 23rd National Forum on Character Education to be held the weekend of October 14–15, 2016, in Washington, DC. Visit www.character.org to learn more about the National Forum, the Schools of Character program (State & National), and the 2016 national honorees.
Check back with www.cherryhillsun.com for a more detailed story later this week.
