Character.org, a national advocate and leader for character development in schools and communities, recently certified 14 New Jersey schools as National Schools of Character.
“We are pleased to announce and celebrate the schools and school districts that have earned this national recognition,” said Dr. Arthur Schwartz, president of Character.org. “Each of these schools has put in place a comprehensive approach to help students understand, care about, and consistently practice the character strengths that will help them flourish in school, in relationships, in the workplace, and as citizens.”
Dr. Lawrence S. Feinsod, executive director of the New Jersey School Boards Association, extended his congratulations to the New Jersey schools that were recognized. “Helping students develop character traits that will help them succeed in school and in life is so important,” he said. “We applaud these schools and all the others that make character development a priority.”
The schools are among only 50 schools and two school districts nationwide to receive the honor. The New Jersey schools that were honored with the certification are:
- Russell Knight Elementary, Cherry Hill.
- Burlington County Alternative School, Mount Laurel.
- Campbell Elementary School, Metuchen.
- Cinnaminson Middle School, Cinnaminson.
- J.F. Aldene Elementary School, Roselle Park.
- John A. Carusi Middle School, Cherry Hill.
- Joyce Kilmer Middle School, Milltown.
- Maple Road School, West Milford Township.
- Millstone Middle School, Millstone.
- Morgan Elementary School, Hamilton.
- North Plainfield High School, North Plainfield.
- Red Bank Charter School, Red Bank.
- Somerset Intermediate School, North Plainfield.
- Washington Elementary School, Roselle.
Since its inception, the National Schools of Character program has impacted over 3 million students, staff, parents and community members. The schools and districts that apply must meet the standards articulated in Character.org’s “11 Principles Framework for Schools.” Each school is assessed by a team of trained evaluators.
“There is an ethic of care at these schools,” adds Lori Soifer, who directs the Schools of Character program. “Working together with students, parents and community members, these schools are creating stronger communities focused on character.”
Character.org will honor the 2022 National Schools and Districts of Character at its next International Forum, to be held virtually, October 19-20.