Character Counts

THE SIX PILLARS OF CHARACTER®

The CHARACTER COUNTS! approach to character education doesn't exclude anyone. That's why we base our programs and materials on six ethical values that everyone can agree on — values that are not political, religious, or culturally biased. Use the points below to help young people understand the Six Pillars, and use the mnemonic devices below to help them remember.

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

RESPECT

Treat others with respect; follow the Golden Rule • Be tolerant and accepting 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

RESPONSIBILITY

Do what you are supposed to do • Plan ahead • 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 words, actions, and attitudes • Set a good example for others

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 • Treat all people fairly

CARING

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

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 • Volunteer

SIX PILLAR MNEMONICS

Help young people remember the Pillars by using these creative devices.

COLOR SCHEME

TRUSTWORTHINESS :Blue

Think "true blue"

RESPECT : Yellow/Gold

Think the Golden Rule

RESPONSIBILITY : Green

Think being responsible for a garden or finances; or as in being solid and reliable like an oak

FAIRNESS : Orange

Think of dividing an orange into equal sections to share fairly with friends

CARING : Red

Think of a heart

CITIZENSHIP : Purple

Think regal purple as representing the state

T R R F C C

Students can use this acronym to help them remember that people with good character are terrific:

T rustworthiness

R espect

R esponsibility

F airness

C aring

C itizenship