Character Counts
Miller’s Character education program, Character Counts, has been a part of the Miller culture since 1999. We believe, in order to foster and sustain a school where everyone feels safe and respected, core ethical values are the key to promoting the development of good character. “The purpose of the Character Counts Coalition is to fortify the lives of America’s young people with consensus ethical values called the “Six Pillars of Character.” These values, which transcend divisions of race, creed, politics, gender and wealth, are: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship.” To learn more about Character Counts and to access their informative parenting program, go to http://www.charactercounts.org/ or call Deborah Worthy 247-1418 ext. 2561 or John Lawson ext. 2560.
The objective of Miller’s program is two-fold. First it allows all of Miller’s community to be immersed in the Six Pillars of Character and second it allows the students to take full responsibility for their behavior. This program allows the students to earn rewards by displaying the Six Pillars of Character. Spirit weeks, pep assemblies, dances, and school parties are earned by accumulating tokens. Each staff member has tokens in their possession. If a staff member sees a student displaying one or more of the Six Pillars of Character, the staff member gives the student ONE token. The student takes the token to Mr. Hankins for principal and parent recognition. The student then decides in which pillar he/she will add the token: the grade level pillar or the all-school pillar. As the tokens build up, rewards are achieved. There will be three rewards available per quarter. Students can use the general rewards listed on the pillars, or as a grade level they can choose their own rewards.
Be honest • Don’t deceive, cheat or steal • Be reliable
– do what you say you’ll do • Have the courage to do the right thing •
Build a good reputation • Be loyal – stand by your family, friends, and
country. Treat others with respect; follow the Golden Rule • Be
tolerant of differences • Use good manners, not bad language • Be
considerate of the feelings of others • Don’t threaten, hit or hurt anyone
• Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements Do what you are supposed to do • Persevere: keep trying!
• Always do your best • Use self-control • Be self-disciplined • Think
before you act – consider the consequences • Be accountable for your
choices Play by the rules • Take turns and share • Be
open-minded: listen to others • Don’t take advantage of others • Don’t
blame others carelessly Be kind • Be compassionate and show you care • Express
gratitude • Forgive others • Help people in need Do your share to make your school and community better •
Cooperate • Get involved in community affairs • Stay informed; vote • Be a
good neighbor • Obey laws and rules • Respect authority • Protect the environment
Trustworthiness
Respect
Responsibility
Fairness
Caring
Citizenship