Character Education

The mission of Character Education is to promote ethical standards to all Guilford County students as an integral part of their life long learning.

The Guilford County Joint Committee on Character Education was formally organized in February 1997 to pursue community input on establishing a program of character development for students. The initiative evolved into the Guilford County Character Education Council.

The process began with the New Generations Conference; a joint endeavor led by the Rotary Clubs of Guilford County, Greensboro College, Guilford County Schools and various community agencies. Adults and youth from Guilford County Schools helped develop a set of eight character traits to be reinforced in the schools.

The eight Corner Stones of Good Character are as follows:

Respect. Showing high regard for self, other people, property and authority. Understanding that all people have value. Responding sensitively to the ideas of others without dismissing or degrading them.

Caring-Compassion. Treating others with compassion, generosity and friendship. Recognizing that everyone from time to time feels hurt, confused and angry. Seeking understanding and reconciliation with other members of a community in conflict.

Responsibility. Being dependable. Carrying out obligations and having a sense of duty to fulfill tasks one has accepted. Being accountable.

Courage. Attempting difficult things that are worthwhile. Doing the right thing even when others do not. Following your conscience rather than the crowd.

Integrity. Carrying out your responsibilities without claiming credit for someone else's work. Willing to acknowledge wrongdoing. Being truthful and trustworthy.

Determination. The inner strength and perseverance to purse goals. Each person works to complete assignments, and all members of the community support others in their work.

Self-Discipline. Demonstrating hard work and commitment. Improving yourself and restraining from inappropriate behavior. Doing your best always.

Giving. Discovering that one of life's greatest satisfactions comes from giving to others. Sharing through service. Responding to the needs of others, without expectation of reward.

Initiatives of the Character Education program include:

• Sponsorship of programs in the school system and community on modeling positive character;
• Participation in the International Laws of Life program and collaboration with the business community to provide scholarships to winners of first, second and third place from high schools and middle schools;
• Assistance with the New Generations conference sponsored by Greensboro College. This program promotes among students good citizenship through community involvement and good character;
• Sponsorship of a Character Education and Diversity summer summit to promote good character through appreciation of diversity;
• Collaboration with colleges, universities, businesses, PTA, Comer, and other parent groups to promote Character Education in the Guilford community.

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