CC! is spreading its wings in Brandon Valley, with the formation of the Brandon Valley CHARACTER COUNTS! Coalition in the spring of 2005.

Parent Renee Ullom told the Sioux Falls Argus-Leader, "The middle school in Brandon has had CHARACTER COUNTS! for years, but we want to spotlight it on both adults and kids" with the coalition. It will support the Six Pillars throughout Brandon Valley schools and in the community.

"The principal at Valley Springs has used it in former schools and has had wonderful success," said Ms. Ullom.

"We've had a handful of information meetings attended by a small group of people, but as we get back to the school year, the group will gain traction," parent Mike Klumpp said.

Kari Fruechte, statewide CC! project leader, estimated that between half and two-thirds of South Dakota schoolkids get exposure to CC!. "And it's probably closer to two-thirds," she said.