At Guilford County Schools, we recognize that teachers of the highest caliber, an engaging curriculum and even the most advanced technology are not enough to prepare our students for life outside the classroom. It also takes something else. We refer to this additional piece as character development. And while the details of this essential lesson are not outlined in any textbook, it is reinforced by every teacher, at every grade level, in every school.

The benefit of strong character can't be measured by any test. Rather, it's demonstrated during those common instances when our students are given the opportunity to think for themselves. Simply put, character is about making the right choices. And if we can emphasize it from the moment a child begins school, character development can equip students with the tools and motivation necessary to be the change they wish to see in the world.

We also welcome parents to reinforce character development at home. Below are the character traits our schools are emphasizing in the classroom. Please feel free to use these at home as well. Some ideas for you:

• Each month, print out the character trait handout and put it on the refrigerator.
• At dinnertime, talk to your child about the trait of the month and how your family can incorporate it into your daily lives.
• Copy some of the quotes listed on each handout and sporadically place them in your child’s lunchbox or book bag.
• Review the key events listed on each handout and find ways to participate as a family.

For more tips on how to build strong character, join one of Guilford Parent Academy's Building Character Workshops.