Character Concepts
The goals of the Character Concepts program include the development of self-esteem, pride, citizenship and strengthening of positive character traits among Mansfield Middle School students. The program supports students' self-advocacy and decision-making principles and models that students learn in the D.A.R.E. program. Character Concepts also establishes the characteristics that underlie success, which are developed in all school prevention programs and in the Grades 5-8 Advisor/Advisee program.
Each week in the Character Concepts program all fifth graders discuss a particular character trait, such as respect, self-control, honesty, citizenship, pride, courage and creativity. The students learn the definitions of these words, and understanding of the concept is developed in homeroom through stories and personal examples. Teachers use examples from everyday situations at school to emphasize good choices that students make. Character Concepts are also infused throughout the curriculum and in the daily language and behaviors of staff. Embedded in all lessons and discussions are positive messages of "doing what is right," making safe and healthy choices, and in respecting the rights and livelihood of others. Students are exposed to character education in all aspects of their school day.
Character Concepts is based on research from the Child Development Project, the Winkelman Elementary School and the West Point Elementary School. This research shows that successful schools enforce clear rules, use community resources, involve students, implement programs that span the grades, and encourage the development of students who promote the value of avoiding risky choices. Over time, schools that follow these principles exhibit improvement in academics and school climate, reduction of violence and good community relations.