The National School of Character designation is awarded by Character.org, the nonprofit organization that validates character initiatives in schools and communities around the world. In 2017, the organization recognized 83 schools and four districts for their dedicated focus on character development programs. Through school culture and curriculum, these schools help students develop and apply core values that will serve them—and the larger society—as they grow into the leaders who will soon shape our world.
“What’s most exciting to me about this award is that it confirms the power of what we do each day at Sheridan,” says Jessica Lee, Sheridan’s head of school. “We are thrilled to be seen as a leader in developing a caring and productive school environment and look forward to sharing our experiences with other schools that are striving to educate the whole child in a challenging climate.”
To become a National School of Character, schools submit to a review of their programming and community and an on-site visit. Results of effective character initiatives in schools typically include improved academic achievement, a decline in behavioral problems, and an increase in an overall positive school climate.
Above: Sheridan eighth grade student Fiore Petricone (right) spoke at the ceremony, sharing how the school's positive community has affected him personally. Pictured with Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, Sheridan Head of School Jessica Lee, Sheridan school counsellor, Phyllis Fagell, and Sheridan sixth grade teacher, Noel Sheppard.