The Wisconsin Character Education Partnership annually recognizes schools throughout the state that work collaboratively to create and implement a plan to foster a more harmonious and educational environment. The UWM School of Education is a partner in this project.
After planning, implementing, and assessing their results, schools can earn the Promising Practice Award for enhancing character education within their school communities.
This year, six public and private schools, including primary and high schools, are being recognized.
They are:
- Appleton Public Montessori School (Appleton School District): “Work Journal Virtues Reflections”
Students in grades 1-3 journal about their own virtue growth. Each student shares their journal with their teacher and parents. Students learn that they have the capacity to make choices that reflect ethical values. - Eastbrook Academy (Milwaukee Private School): “Community Days”
The school community creates cross-age group sets of activities from sports to social. Guided discussions are held, and the goal is to provide opportunities to come together to create a greater sense of community. - River Falls High School (River Falls School District): “Wiley’s Common Ground”
The school’s student-run coffee shop allows students with diverse abilities to learn about business and practice character skills in a very hands-on approach. Students use the proceeds monthly to share with others. One example involved a local nursing home where students visited, spent time with residents, and provided free beverages. - River Falls High School (River Falls School District): “Wiley’s Wardrobe”
“Wiley’s Wardrobe” is an example of character in action. This student-led action grew from a desire to get clothing and personal items to those with basic needs. Access was handled with dignity and discretion. Moving from bins to a store/closet-like space, students place the items and work in the space for those who stop by. - Rockfield Elementary (Germantown School District): “Peaceful Pathway”
From second through fifth grade, students experience conflict resolution by learning to use their voice assertively while exhibiting empathy for others. Empathy, respect, and responsibility are the goals of students, faculty, and staff. - Tomorrow River School District: “Embedding Character and Social Emotional Learning (SEL) into District Strategic Plan.”
The school district incorporates SEL in the K-12 curriculum to promote a common language throughout the district, emphasizing character traits. Using DPI grant money, the district hired an SEL coordinator. The curriculum is focused on character lessons like integrity, empathy, and conflict resolution.
For more information about the individual schools and WCEP in general, please contact WCEP@srpff.org.
If you would like to help fund Community Engagement, please visit the Give to School of Education webpage.