Character Counts
Character Links
Kings River uses Character Counts!, a character education framework that is used nation-wide. Good character is necessary to successfully and honorably meet life’s challenges. The Character Counts! approach to character education doesn’t exclude anyone. That’s why the programs and materials are based on the six ethical values that everyone can agree on – values that are not political, religious, or culturally biased. Each month, Kings River staff and students focus on one of six pillars of character.
What is Character Counts?
Founded by Michael Josephson, Character Counts is a nationwide character education program administered by Josephson Institute and the Center for Youth Ethics. Character Counts leaders, also known as coaches, instill the programs importance in everything they do. For learning in the classroom, the honor above all, addresses academic honesty. Students focus on trustworthiness and fairness as guiding pillars in their academic learning.
Kings River School actively supports Character Counts and the Six Pillars of Character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. The six pillars are the foundation for showing good character from the time a student rides a school bus, to learning in a classroom, eating lunch, and interacting with others. The six pillars of character have become part of the language among students and staff, and students are encouraged and recognized for showing good character. Banners, murals and posters are displayed throughout the campus. The Character Counts framework is not only visible through displays, but more importantly, it is evident in how students and staff respectfully treat each other every day.
Character Counts is the nation’s most widely used character development framework.
It is used in schools, sports, and civic organizations.
It is based on shared beliefs and consensus values called the “Six Pillars of Character.”
It provides an easy to understand, readily acceptable common language for youngsters, parents and character educators.
Character Counts is a national grassroots initiative based on voluntary citizen action.
It’s the only character education program with a certified training course for educators, youth development professionals and community organizers.
A means to introduce religion into public education
An “add-on” program
Just a “feel-good” program
The Six Pillars of Character
Responsibility
Do what you’re supposed to do
Persevere: keep on trying!
Do your best
Use self control
Be self-disciplined
Think before you act – consider the consequences
Be accountable for your choices
Respect
Treat others with respect
Follow the Golden Rule
Be tolerant of differences
Use good manners, not bad language
Be considerate of others
Don’t threaten, hit or hurt anyone
Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements
Citizenship
Do your part to improve your school and community
Protect the environment
Cooperate
Stay informed
Vote
Be a good neighbor
Obey laws and rules
Respect authority
Caring
Be kind
Be compassionate and show you care
Express gratitude
Forgive others
Help people in need
Fairness
Play by the rules
Take turns and share
Be open-minded; listen to others
Don’t take advantage of others
Don’t blame others carelessly
Trustworthiness
Be honest
Don’t deceive, cheat or steal
Be reliable — do what you say you’ll do
Have the courage to do the right thing
Build a good reputation
Be loyal — stand by your family, friends and community
The Character Counts Pledge
I pledge to be a kid of Character.
I will be worthy of trust.
I will be respectful and responsible, doing what I must.
I will act with fairness.
I will show that I care.
I will be a good citizen and always do my share.
