CHARACTER COUNTS!

What Is CHARACTER COUNTS?

CHARACTER COUNTS! is the most widely implemented approach to character education, reaching millions of youth. CHARACTER COUNTS! is:

• A framework based on basic values called the Six Pillars of Character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship.

• Embraced by thousands of schools, communities, public agencies and nonprofit organizations for a simple reason – it works. These groups receive support and development from a national office, which offers training programs, free e-newsletters, resources and free consultation.

• Nonprofit, not religious or political (though used by both secular and faith-based groups, and supported by public officials of both major parties).

• Not a curriculum or add-on, but a powerful means to advance curricular and behavioral goals.

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Character Education at Kennedy School

Each month, teachers will identify students who have demonstrated the character trait of the month.  The child's name will be written on a leaf for the trait and added to the hallway wall with the corresponding character street name.

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Six Pillars of Character for Kennedy School are:

Responsibility

Do what you are supposed to do • Persevere: keep on trying! • Always do your best • Use self-control • Be self-disciplined • Think before you act — consider the consequences • Be accountable for your choices

 

 

Citizenship

Do your share to make your school and community better • Cooperate • Get involved in community affairs • Stay informed; vote • Be a good neighbor • Obey laws and rules • Respect authority • Protect the environment

 

Caring

Be kind • Be compassionate and show you care • Express gratitude • Forgive others • Help people in need

 

Respect

Treat others with respect; follow the Golden Rule • Be tolerant of differences • Use good manners, not bad language • Be considerate of the feelings of others • Don’t threaten, hit or hurt anyone • Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements

 

Fairness

Play by the rules • Take turns and share • Be open-minded; listen to others • Don’t take advantage of others • Don’t blame others carelessly

 

Trustworthiness

Be honest • Don’t deceive, cheat or steal • Be reliable — do what you say you’ll do • Have the courage to do the right thing • Build a good reputation • Be loyal — stand by your family, friends and country

 

CHARACTER COUNTS! in South Plainfield

Our mission in South Plainfield is to provide our students with opportunities to develop important character values, assets, and leadership skills that will help them reach their full potential and become positive and productive members of our community

It just makes sense to teach young people right from wrong, in the classroom, living room,  and locker room.  We want to be surrounded by good people, people we can trust to make decisions according to principle rather that expedience.  After all, what are education, coaching, and child rearing supposed to be about?  They should guide children to develop strong character traits to live healthy and happy lives.

We invite you to join this team effort and support South Plainfield's initiative to encourage good character our daily lives.

 

CHARACTER COUNTS AWARD WINNERS

2010 - 2011 Award WInners