Minnesota Schools of Character

A School of Character has the power to change lives and communities. The key to this transformation lies in a set of shared “core values” that embody what the school stands for and serve as the anchors and guideposts that unite and bind together the school community.

The process of becoming a School of Character isn’t just limited to a curriculum or a single aspect of school life. Rather, a School of Character has proactively implemented the 11 Principles Framework for Schools. The 11 Principles, backed by decades of research and success, has inspired and guided thousands of schools around the world to develop a comprehensive and sustained character initiative that is intentional, involves all school stakeholders, and is woven into all aspects of the school’s culture, teaching, and learning.

The School of Character application and evaluation process are designed to support a school’s growth. Reflecting on the scores and feedback is critical to the continuous improvement process.

Synergy & Leadership Exchange is the state sponsor and partners with Character.org to provide the program in Minnesota. The application is submitted online through Character.org.

Tools, resources, and assistance are available to support schools with the process and application. Download the Guide to Applying for School and District of Character.

DID YOU KNOW?

National School of Character Trends from Character.org:

87.3% report students feeling safe

88.3% of schools with math scores on the rise or high

87.7% of schools with reading scores on the rise or high

95.4% average attendance

89% saw a decline in the suspension rate

87% saw a decline in discipline referrals

Wondering what a School of Character looks like? Check out the video of Community of Peace Academy, a three-time Minnesota and National School of Character.

For More Information Contact Barb Bergseth 507-389-5112

2025 Program Dates

June 2024 — Application Opens

Nov. 8, 2024 — Application Closes

January 2025 — State Schools/Districts of Character Announced

May 2025 — Character Recognition Awards Luncheon

May 2025 — National Schools/Districts of Character Announced

11 Principles Framework

The 11 Principles Framework is a guide to cultivating a culture of character in a school. Based on decades of research on effective schools, the 11 Principles serve as guideposts for schools to plan, implement, assess, and sustain their comprehensive character development initiative.

Many school leaders also use the 11 Principles as a school improvement process. The 11 Principles focus on all aspects of school life, including school culture and climate, social and emotional learning (SEL), student engagement and academic achievement, as well as MTSS, PBIS, RTI, restorative practices, teacher morale, and parent engagement. The framework can be used as a tool for planning and assessment to improve school climate and culture, complementary to other initiatives (e.g. – PBIS, Responsive Classroom, social-emotional learning, restorative practices).

The 11 Principles serve as an assessment tool and rubric for the Schools of Character application. Visit the 11 Principles page for more information, resources and training opportunities.

Why Apply?

In Schools of Character, teachers, administrators and staff work together with parents and community members to positively shape the social, emotional and character development of young people. In these schools, students feel safe, respected and connected to those around them, allowing them to thrive academically and socially. Schools of Character report:

● Increase in test scores and academic improvement

● Decline in disciplinary incidents and bullying

● Higher attendance and graduation rates

● Strong community and stakeholder engagement

● Lower teacher turnover rate

Application Process

The Schools of Character application is a rigorous process. Before applying, we recommend you review the resources and guides on the Character.org website.

Participation in the state or national Schools of Character program utilizes the same online application through Character.org. Using the 11 Principles of Effective Character Education as a guideline, schools and/or districts submit a self-assessment and portfolio that demonstrates how character has had a positive effect on academic achievement, behavior and school climate. Trained evaluators review the application and provide written feedback to applicants. An application fee is collected by Character.org.

Minnesota applicants reaching a standard of excellence at the state level are named State Schools of Character by Synergy and maintain this status for five years. Applicants named as a Minnesota School of Character, and meeting the guidelines, may submit their application for national review (an additional application fee is collected by Character.org). Those schools and districts meeting a national standard of excellence are named National Schools of Character by Character.org and maintain this status for five years. These schools and districts become part of a state and national network that serve as models and mentors to other educators.

Ready to apply? Apply online through Character.org.