What is CHARACTERplus®?
CHARACTERplus, a division of Cooperating School Districts, advocates a process that secures community consensus on values such as respect and responsiblility, and weaves character education throughout school life. Started in 1988 by a concerned group of business leaders, educators and parents, CHARACTERplus has become the largest community-wide initiative in the country. It involves more than 40 member school districts throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area who serve over 250,000 students in Missouri and Illinois. CHARACTERplus also trains educators in more than 140 school districts throughout Missouri with the support of state and federal grants.
The process is rooted in action research, as educators developed and tested strategies that met the needs of their students and school culture. Their "best practices" were synthesized into The "Ten Essentials of the CHARACTERplus Process." Together these essentials embed character development in the mission and policies of districts, the professional development of educators, and the content and context of learning, and sports and after-school activities. Outcomes are measured by increases in students' sense of
altruism (care and respect for self and others,
autonomy (leadership and ability to effect decisions about school life),
belonging (inclusion with peers and connectedness to the school), and
competence (academic achievement and social/emotional skills).
Laws of Life essays celebrate the altruism and moral leadership of students. They reinforce the sense of belonging not only to the school but to the larger community, and showcase craftmanship and competence in written expression.
"There is a common saying that character education is about helping young people know the good, desire the good, and do the good. By helping young people reflect on the laws of life that mean the most, we help them develop a deep regard for themselves and others, a commitment to their core values, and resolve to live by and speak up for what they believe."
- Sanford McDonnell, Chair, CHARACTERplus