At California School for the Deaf, Riverside, we are proud to be using the CHARACTER COUNTS! program in our school community. CHARACTER COUNTS! strengthens our students through character education. A person of character is a good person, someone to look up to and admire. This person knows the difference between right and wrong and always tries to do what is right. Also, a person with character sets a good example for everyone and makes the world a better place. The person of character lives according to the “Six Pillars of Character”; TRUSTWORTHINESS, RESPECT, RESPONSBILITY, FAIRNESS, CARING and CITIZENSHIP.
I want to share this quote with you all. It explains what character education means at our school and in our daily lives:
Character education is not a single course, a quick-fix program,
or a slogan posted on the wall; it is an integral part of school life.
The school must become a community of virtue in which
responsibility, hard work, honesty, and sensitivity
are modeled, taught, expected, celebrated, and continually practiced.
From the classroom to the playground,
from the cafeteria to the staff lounge,
the formation of character must be the central concern.
-Kevin Ryan, Director of Center for the Advancement
of Ethics and Character at Boston University
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 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 • 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
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
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
Kelly Gunderson
CHARACTER COUNTS! Coordinator
