Since 2008, Character.org has recognized schools for developing a Promising Practice that has positively impacted school culture, involves a range of stakeholders (students, staff, parents, community members), and aligns with one or more of our 11 Principles.
This week we recognized 230 Promising Practices across the United States and around the world. I love reading each application and learning about the impact of each program or initiative; but this year, what grabbed my attention were the narratives of two questions we ask each school:
- What is the story behind your practice?
- What is one component or feature of your Promising Practice that educators might find most special or unique?
Below are four insights I gleaned from their compelling responses:
School leaders are searching for ways to foster intrinsic motivation
So many of our 2025 Promising Practices highlighted new practices and approaches to encourage students to “do the right thing” for intrinsic rather than extrinsic reasons (Principle 7). It was heartening to read how schools leaders reflected on feedback they received after applying to become a National School of Character and then coming together to put in place a new approach or initiative to encourage students to internalize their own moral compass.
Schools are using annual themes that emphasize character
Each of these Promising Practices lifted my spirit. While reading one application, I kept saying to myself “This theme is amazing. I wish I could have taught at this school.” What I appreciated most about the schools that have developed an annual theme around character is how deeply the schools integrated their theme in the curriculum and throughout the school year. For example, one school had every classroom teacher read to their students the same book that vivified the school’s annual theme. Looking for ideas to create a school theme for your school? Check out this short article.
Schools are encouraging students to set their own character goals
One school created a new program that provides an opportunity for students to establish and track a range of personal goals aligned with the core values of the school (with the support of an adult mentor). Another school integrated “goal setting” into their restorative practices. It was heartening to read how so many schools are putting place a promising practice that aligns with current research on the benefits of students setting personal goals for themselves.
Schools are finding creative ways to engage parents and caregivers
So many of our 2025 Promising Practices align with Principle 10 of our 11 Principles Framework (“Families and the community are integral partners in the school’s character initiative”). One school started Family Story Night, a bilingual literacy event that invites parents and caregivers to participate in read-aloud stations and storytelling performances. Another school holds evening meetings every month with parents and caregivers (both in-person and virtual). The monthly meeting is designed, in part, to discuss the core value that the school will be focused on in the coming month. Parents and caregivers meet with their child’s teacher after the meeting to discuss how they can model and reinforce the core value at home.
Conclusion
It’s hard for me to capture in a single article the hope and optimism I felt reading the 230 Promising Practices narratives. But here’s what I know for sure: at the heart of each Promising Practice is forming and strengthening caring attachments. While reading every application, I felt that each practice, even those that focus on a particular core value, is ultimately about helping students feel connected to their school. There is a palpable spirit of “we” that underpins our 2025 Promising Practices. Each Promising Practice embodies the ideal of Principle 4 – creating a caring school community where everyone feels they belong.
Note: I would like to thank Diana Dodson, our Promising Practices coordinator. Her steeled belief in the power of schools to foster character always inspires me.
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