Referrals for misbehavior dropped by as much as 50 percent at some schools. Principals reported increasing peace on the playgrounds and in the hallways. Crime and violence declined on campus. Instances of ethical behavior, such turning in lost wallets, became common. With teacher help, students began to use conflict resolution and peer mediation to solve their problems.
Ethical behavior is now part of the culture of our school district.
Of course, character education is no cure-all. Problems still exist. The number one influence on any child will continue to be adult behavior modeled in the home. But I am thankful to have a framework that consistently addresses standards of character. I am proud of the common ethical language we have adopted.