Posted on 05/10/2017
The Francis Howell School District is proud to
announce that for the second time in the past decade, Francis Howell Middle
School (FHMS) has been selected as a National School of Character. Each year, Character.org and its state affiliates select schools and districts
that demonstrate a dedicated focus on character development programs and a
positive impact on academic achievement, student behavior, school climate and
their communities.
“Nine years later, after first being named a NSOC,
this just confirms, affirms, and solidifies the work our ‘family’ is doing each
day,” said FHMS Principal Dr. Ted Huff. “It is all about building those
relationships with students, each other, and our parents. I am humbled and
honored at the same time to be a part of Francis Howell Middle School, this
incredible family and community we call home.”
Only 83 schools from around the country were selected
for the prestigious award this year. Through an in-depth and rigorous
evaluation process, these schools were found to be exemplary models of
character development. Criteria for selection are based on Character.org’s 11 Principles of Effective Character Education, a framework to assist schools in providing students
with opportunities for moral action, fostering shared leadership and engaging
families and communities as partners in the character-building effort.
Dr. Huff says that character
helps to define the FHMS culture. “The
2017 National School of Character distinction goes well beyond the title, the
honor. It means much more to our Howell Middle family. Character education is
engrained in who we are as a school community. It speaks to our philosophy,
belief system, and practices. It tells us that building relationships is the
key to creating a successful and positive school community.”
FHMS was selected to receive this honor for their work
in demonstrating outstanding character education initiatives that deliver
positive results in school climate, student behavior, and academic performance.
FHMS works hard to create a caring environment where all will feel welcome.
Character education is intentionally integrated into the academic program to
promote a sense of responsibility, caring, and respect for the community and
the environment.