2005 National School of Character Awarded to
Chaparral Elementary

When Karen, a second grader, was asked what character meant to her, she wrote, "It makes the world a little brighter."

Chaparral Elementary School has been recognized as a 2005 National School of Character at the Character Education Partnership National Forum October 20-22 in Atlanta, Georgia.

The National Schools of Character Program, now in its ninth year, recognizes K-12 schools and districts demonstrating outstanding character education initiatives that result in positive results in school climate, student behavior, and academic performance. Winners emphasize core ethical values such as honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring.

Chaparral received a cash award of $2,000 and will serve as a model of effective character education for other schools. Principal Holly Brommer and the Chaparral staff will serve as ambassadors in this effort. The school's program and photographs will be included in the 2005 National Schools of Character book and CD.

Janice Stoodley, program director for the National Schools of Character said, "Although many strong applicants applied this year, your (Chaparral's) program stood out as truly exemplary and worthy of recognition. We highly commend your staff, students, and families for their efforts to develop a caring school that promotes character along with academics."

Chaparral's school community proudly demonstrates a passion for others and a strong sense of community. Their mission statement, "to instill in each child strength of character, sense of community, and love of learning," is demonstrated throughout the school.

Examples include:
Problem-solving and critical thinking opportunities within the classrooms where students take on many vital roles such as student ambassadors, peer mediators, and activists against violence. Opportunities for student leadership and citizenship include fifth graders participating in the concept of "Town."

Participating in Character Counts!, a framework adopted by the Poway Unified School District through a generous grant from a community member. The program furnishes a common goal and language for the entire district as well as staff training. The Six Pillars of Character – trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship are the core values of the program.

Establishing "Kids Corps," a local chapter of the National Youth Volunteer Organization, where in its first year at Chaparral there were 18 active service programs including writing letters to soldiers and firefighters and making sandbags to help combat the chance of flooding.

Parent and community involvement in "Character Corps" where parents volunteer to lead character-related lessons in the classroom. Local leaders from the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, and Fire Department participate in class discussions and assembly programs.

Adoption of a sister school, Farr Elementary in Escondido, a school with largely Hispanic students in a less affluent neighborhood, has led to a deeper appreciation of the richness of diversity and different cultures.

"Our program is successful because it is based on a sense of community, a community of adults and children working together for common goals," said Ms. Brommer. In 2003, the San Diego Chamber of Commerce recognized Chaparral Elementary School for "exemplifying the best practices of character education."

On Wednesday, October 26, 2005, at 9:00 a.m., the Chaparral school community will celebrate the national award. The event, led by students, will feature the displaying of the National School of Character flag.