Character Does Count!
In order to help our students become successful in school and beyond, we have adopted a character development program called Character Counts. The purpose of Character Counts is to "fortify the lives of America's young people with consensus ethical values called the "Six Pillars of Character." These values transcend divisions of race, creed, politics, gender and wealth." (Character Counts Coalition, 2005)
Each month we will focus on teaching students one of the six pillars of good character. The order we teach the six pillars is:
September-Overview of all 6 Pillars!
October-Respect
November/December-Caring
January-Responsibility
February-Citizenship
March-Trustworthiness
April-Fairness
May/June-Recap/Review
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The Six Pillars of Character |
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(Definitions for Young People) |
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Trustworthiness |
Fairness |
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• Be honest |
• Play by the rules |
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• Don't deceive, cheat or steal |
• Take turns and share |
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• Be reliable - do what you say you'll do |
• Be open-minded; listen to others |
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• Have the courage to do the right thing |
• Don't take advantage of others |
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• Build a good reputation |
• Don't blame others carelessly |
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• Be loyal - stand by your family, friends, and country |
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Respect |
Caring |
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• Treat others with respect; follow the Golden Rule |
• Be kind |
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• Be tolerant of differences |
• Be compassionate and show you care |
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• Use good manners, not bad language |
• Express gratitude |
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• Be considerate of the feelings of others |
• Forgive others |
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• Don't threaten, hit or hurt anyone |
• Help people in need |
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• Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements |
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Responsibility |
Citizenship |
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• Do what you are supposed to do |
• Do your share to make your school and community better |
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• Persevere: keep on trying! |
• Cooperate |
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• Always do your best |
• Get involved in community affairs |
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• Use self-control |
• Stay informed; vote |
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• Be self-disciplined |
• Be a good neighbor |
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• Think before you act - consider the consequences |
• Obey laws and rules |
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• Be accountable for your choices |
• Respect authority |
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• Protect the environment |
Character Counts Website |