Core Traits for Successful Living

“We must remember that intelligence is not enough. Intelligence plus character — that is the goal of true education.” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Jackson Public Schools is determined to assist children in becoming good citizens who are productive, successful and happy. A first-rate education addresses more than academics.

The majority of our students have strong backgrounds in moral training. However, there are some who do not have the opportunity to learn the integral components of character education like citizenship, honesty, self-discipline, respect, caring, justice, courage, responsibility, goal setting, and wisdom. These student needs have served as a catalyst for a district-wide emphasis beginning 2002-2003 on the core traits of character education.

Classroom teachers from pre-K through high school will present monthly core trait emphases as a part of the regular instructional day in a spiraling approach. Once a trait is introduced, it will be repeated at intervals throughout the year with the activities, concepts and understandings being developed and expanded each time they are revisited.

These repeated emphases develop a district-wide, sequential focus on the development of character. Whenever a guest is invited to a school, school officials will be able to name the character trait that is being emphasized that month. This will provide an opportunity for students to hear community leaders speak on character issues. It will also inform the community about the JPS emphasis on the core traits-and since 83% of any student’s life is spent in the community as opposed to only 17% being spent in school-this will invite the Jackson community to strengthen district efforts in building student character. Parents are also encouraged to emphasize these traits in the home setting as well.

Be a part. E-mail your ideas and questions to SUGGESTION.