Hart Middle School named 2019 Michigan School of Character

The Rochester Community School District is pleased to announce that Character.org, a national advocate and leader for character in collaboration with the state of Michigan, has named Hart Middle School a 2019 Michigan School of Character. The program recognized Hart as a school that has demonstrated its use of character development to drive a positive impact on academics, student behavior, and school climate.

Hart Middle School named 2019 Michigan School of Character

“Our school culture includes building character—qualities that inspire honesty, integrity, courage, and trust. Character is embedded in our common language, curriculum, and daily interactions,” said Hart Principal Allison Roberts. “We started this journey four years ago, and it’s as important to us as the content we teach.”

With approximately 1,130 students in sixth through eighth grades, Hart Middle School is one of 21 schools in the Rochester Community School District. Only three schools throughout the state of Michigan were recognized with this prestigious honor in 2019.

“We are very proud of the work being done at Hart. Every staff member took part in this long journey to becoming a state school of character. The students also welcomed the challenge, and the work has created an even better culture throughout the school,” said Carrie Lawler, assistant superintendent for secondary education, diversity and inclusion.

The Schools of Character application process is an opportunity for schools and districts to receive thoughtful feedback for growth and excellence in the area of character development and recognize exemplary schools and districts in the nation. Criteria for the designation are based on Character.org’s 11 Principles of Effective Character Education, which includes providing students with opportunities for moral action, fostering shared leadership, and engaging families and communities as partners in character-building efforts.

Since its inception, Character.org has recognized more than 565 schools with the distinction of State School of Character.

“We are extremely proud of the Hart team as they embrace opportunities to ensure students are safe, valued, and respected. The commitment they have to building the character development of our students showcases our district’s pride in excellence,” said Superintendent Robert Shaner, Ph.D.