There are high expectations of school systems throughout the country. They are expected to provide academic knowledge, promote character development and, increasingly, to help solve a variety of social problems among youth.
A growing number of studies suggest that "a well conducted and well conceived character education program is key to effectively addressing all of these seemingly disparate goals" (Battistich, Victor. Character Education, Prevention and Positive Youth Development. University of Missouri. St. Louis. 2006)
The facts - and the evidence - indicate that effective character education programs go hand-in-hand with academic success.
For too long educators have debated about what values to teach as well as how to teach them. They key to moving beyond the values debate is to approach character education from universal principles of respect, justice, unity - values not specific to any culture or religious tradition.
The best way to "teach character" is to get children to "live character". That seems like a tall order and virtually impossible however it can happen when:
1) The school makes a commitment to train all staff in interpersonal communication skills that promote respect and understanding.
2) A set of clear boundaries with predictable, logical consequences is implemented using a system of restorative justice.
This program works with all age groups.
Sample Workshop Topics
Choose from one of several topics for discussion that meet your interest and needs. Any of the following topics can take the form of support groups (in one or two hour sessions held weekly or monthly) or as in-depth training sessions in Three, Six or Twelve Hours. If you do not see what you are looking for here, call to discuss creating a topic to meet your needs!
Kinder Kids, Safer Schools: Creating a Culture of Character for the next Generation
Creating an Effective Character Education Program on a Shoe-String
Virtuous Reality:Creating a Community Safety Net
The Art of Companioning
For Youth ages 12-19:
IVY Program - Internalizing Virtue in Youth
Youth Mentors: Become a Virtues Ambassador
Information Literacy: Understanding Media in the Age of Technology
Improving Communication with Parents & Peers
Call us to set up a free consultation to learn more!!