Project Rationale for Teachers

The Importance of School Character Education Programs

The world is changing in many different ways.  Life moves more quickly, social media changes how we relate to one another. Children are growing up in a different world where many of the issues outlined by the Grandfathers are rearing their ugly heads again and it’s affecting all our children. 

Current longitudinal studies following indices of social and emotional skills among children ages 7 to 16 indicate a steady deterioration in social competence and a corresponding steady increase in withdrawal, anxiety, depression, attention and thinking problems, delinquent and aggressive behavior. The rate of deterioration is the same across socio-economic levels. 

At the same time, research over the past 20 years is indicating the benefits of implementing character education programs in schools (from Understanding Effective Character Education, Dr. Marvin Berkowitz):

• School climate improves.

• Students and staff perceive school as a caring, safe, child-centred place.

• Students behave more appropriately and pro-socially.

• Misconduct, drug use and violence decline significantly.

• Academic motivation and achievement scores increase, including on standardized tests (For example, diligence and a sense of responsibility are often taught in character education programs. Learning skills related to being diligent and responsible teaches students how to focus better on their studies, and more importantly gives them the drive that will make them want to do well in their subjects).

• Students improve their problem-solving skills and develop greater emotional competency (and other aspects of social and emotional intelligence)

 As the world changes, so do the skills that young people need to keep pace. Academic skills are still important in this “new world” but life skills, or “soft skills”, skills focused on developing good character, are just as important if not more important in the achievement of personal success and happiness in life.