Culture & Character

West Bath School's initial work with EL Education was in the area of Culture and Character, as this was the need that most needed to be fulfilled. The students and faculty were struggling with inconsistent expectations from classroom to classroom, and change needed to take place.

First, a student-developed Code of Character was created. To do this, students learned about 15 different traits, and then held a power vote to determine which 6 were the most important to them. The traits identified by students as most critical were respectful, responsible, compassionate, honest, creative, and joyful. The traits were defined so that expectations were clear. Crew was used as a vehicle to teach the traits in the classrooms.

Symbols and traditions were developed to help to ensure that the Code of Character became integrated fully into the fabric of the school. A tree was chosen to symbolize West Bath's Code of Character, as once roots are established and the tree is nourished it can grow tall and proud. It can stand alone, but also benefits by being part of a group. Students who are upholding the Code of Character are called arborists, and are recognized by wearing the arborist necklace.

Claim 1 - Effective Learners - West Bath School students embrace and embody our school’s Habits of Scholarship traits to become effective learners.

Claim 2 - Ethical People - West Bath School students embrace and embody our school’s Code of Character traits to become ethical people.

Claim 3 - Contributing to a Better World - West Bath School students contribute to a better world through school, local, and global stewardship.