Benchmark – Schoolwide

Character Education
Proposal
KEISHA THOMPSON

GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY

EAD-520 STRENGTHENING CURRICULAR PROGRAMS TO

PROMOTE CONTINUOUS SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT

INSTRUCTOR: T. KILLINGSWORTH
DECEMBER 20, 2023
 Introduction:

Character education is foundational to students' holistic development,

contributing to their academic success and personal growth. To enhance the
learning experience at Bay Point Elementary School, we propose the
implementation of a schoolwide character education program. This proposal
is rooted in key research findings, aligns with the school's vision and
mission, and aims to foster a positive and supportive learning environment.
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What is Character Education?

 “Character education is a learning

process that enables students and
adults in a school community to
understand, care about and act on
core ethical values.”
 (U.S. Department of Education, 2005)
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Character Education Programs

The Six pillars of Character

THINK

Buddies Program

Cultures are Cool

Critters of Character
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Rationale for the Proposed
Program
The character education program we propose aligns seamlessly
with Bay Point Elementary School's vision of 100% Student
Success (fostering well-rounded individuals who contribute
positively to society). Our mission emphasizes that through the
curriculum, we will facilitate learning by providing relevant,
multidimensional learning experiences. This character education
program is the missing piece that completes our vision, providing
students with the tools they need to navigate life's challenges with
resilience and integrity.
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Character Traits Diagram

To provide a visual representation of the proposed

program, we have created an original diagram outlining
the character traits embedded in the curriculum. This
visual tool illustrates the interconnectedness of traits such
as respect, responsibility, fairness, and kindness. These
traits form the foundation upon which our students can
build strong character and make ethical decisions.
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Pillars of Character Education
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Explanation of Program Rigor

Character development will be addressed at each grade level in a

comprehensive, rigorous, and coherent manner. Beginning with
foundational concepts in early grades, such as empathy and
cooperation, the program will progressively introduce more
complex traits, including leadership and resilience, as students
advance. This developmental approach ensures that students
acquire the skills and values needed for their current stage of
growth.
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Goals of Program

Our goals for the character education program include

fostering a positive school culture, reducing incidents of
bullying, and improving overall student well-being.
Evaluative data sources will include surveys assessing
student attitudes, behavior incident reports, and academic
performance indicators. Regular assessments will ensure
ongoing program effectiveness and guide adjustments as
needed.
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Evaluation and Stakeholder Support

School progress in the character education program

will be evaluated through annual reviews, inviting
feedback from teachers, parents, and students.
Additionally, we propose establishing a character
education committee comprising representatives from
various stakeholders to provide ongoing support,
suggestions, and advocacy for the program.
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Comparison to Other Programs

In comparing character education programs, two similar

initiatives were explored: Program A and Program B.
While both have merits, our selected program, Program
A, aligns more closely with our school's vision and
mission. It integrates seamlessly with our diverse
student demographics and addresses specific needs
identified through our school-based data analysis.
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Steps for Implementation

•Professional Development: Organize workshops and training sessions for

teachers to familiarize them with the program's principles and effective
implementation strategies.
•Communication with Parents: Establish open lines of communication with
parents through newsletters, workshops, and parent-teacher conferences to
ensure their involvement and understanding of the program.
•Obstacle Management: Anticipate potential obstacles such as resistance to
change, time constraints, and conflicting initiatives. Proactively address these
challenges through transparent communication, collaboration, and strategic
planning.
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Goals for the Program

We all have a significant role to play in this fascinating new chapter in the history of Bay Point Elementary!

It will require some time to properly enjoy the results of our efforts!

Let's maintain our resolve and optimism throughout, even if we are not sure how things are going.

If change seems to be happening more slowly than you anticipated, do not give up.

Our goal is to create a school culture that places equal emphasis on integrity and academic performance!
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• Implementing a comprehensive
character education program at Bay
Point Elementary School is a strategic
investment in our students' future
success. Supported by robust research,
aligned with our vision and mission,
and tailored to our unique school
culture, this program will contribute
to a positive, nurturing, and inclusive
learning environment for all.
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References

David, J. (n.d.). Character Education Ideas, Tips and Programs. Retrieved from:
https://www.signupgenius.com/school/character-education-ideas-tips-activities.cfm

U.S. Department of Education (2005). Character Education…Our Shared Responsibility.

Teachnology. (2021). Character Education for Elementary Classrooms. Retrieved from:

https://www.teach-nology.com/currenttrends/character_education/elementary_classroom/