Four Guilford County Schools were honored by the North Carolina State Board of Education for earning State and National Schools of Character designations.

Brooks Global Studies, Oak Hill Elementary and Southeast High were named 2016 National Schools of Character by Character.org in Washington, D.C. Since 2014, seven GCS schools have been named National Schools of Character, which are schools that have demonstrated that character development has had a positive impact on academics, student behavior and school climate.

Haynes-Inman Education Center was also recognized by the state as a 2016 State School of Character, along with Oak Hill Elementary and Southeast High. With 10 State Schools of Character, GCS has the most in North Carolina and is one of only 21 National Districts of Character in the country.

“We are proud to have so many schools recognized for teaching and encouraging good character,” says Charlos Banks, executive director of student services and character development. “Our students are learning not just the academic skills they need for the future, but also the social consciousness that helps them become better citizens and leaders.”